Learning about electricity
The education program teaches students about the flow of electricity. The key messages are based on the following drivers:
- circuits
- conductors
- contraction
Circuits
Electricity works in a closed loop called a circuit, and runs from the power source through wires and back to the source. Switches, plugs and power points allow electricity to move in a circular flow. A gap in a circuit stops the flow of electricity.
Conductors
A conductor is a material that contains a moveable electric charge. Examples of conductors are copper, aluminum, gold, silver, water, people, animals and trees. Students learn if they touch an uncovered wire they will become the conductor and can be electrocuted. Electricity will leave a circuit to take the easiest path to earth.
Contraction
Students will learn if they come in contact with an energised conductor, their muscles will contract and will not allow them to let go of the conductor. Electricity can cause burns, contract muscles and can be fatal.
