Our CIE 1 learners recently embarked on an electrifying hands-on adventure into the fascinating world of electricity. The day’s focus was to understand how current flows through a complete circuit and to discover which materials act as conductors or insulators.
The journey began with building a simple circuit using a battery, connecting wires, and a small bulb. Learners observed with excitement that the bulb only lit up when all parts were connected in a complete loop, allowing electric current to flow from the battery, through the bulb, and back again. This “aha” moment sparked questions about what kinds of materials could complete the loop.
Transforming into eager “electricity detectives,” the learners tested everyday objects to see if they could carry current. Paper clips, coins, and keys lit the bulb brightly—clear conductors—while rubber bands, wooden sticks, and plastic spoons did not, proving to be insulators.
The real surprise came when a seemingly ordinary pencil revealed its hidden talent—the graphite inside conducted electricity! This unexpected discovery set off a wave of excitement, with students re-testing objects and eagerly sharing their findings with one another.
By the end of the session, our young scientists confidently classified conductors and insulators and developed a clear, practical understanding of how a complete circuit works. They left the classroom buzzing with energy and ready to explore the electric world around them—one curious test at a time!
