Grade 6 Science: Electricity and Magnetism
Free Grade 6 Science unit on Electricity and Magnetism: 10 lessons in order, starting with Electrical energy. Includes practice questions and answer keys.
10 lessons in this unit
Electrical energy
Learn that electricity is a form of energy carried by moving charges, how cells store chemical energy and release it as electrical energy, sources of electricity, and how current and voltage are described in simple terms. All practical work uses 1.5 V cells only; never mains electricity.
Lesson 2Circuit components
Learn the common circuit components and their symbols, cell, battery, bulb, switch, buzzer, motor, wire and resistor, what each does, and draw and read simple circuit diagrams. Practical work uses 1.5 V cells only.
Lesson 3Simple circuits
Learn that a circuit needs a complete loop with a power source, that current flows only when the loop is closed, how to troubleshoot a circuit that fails, and that the direction of conventional current runs from the positive terminal round to the negative.
Lesson 4Series circuits
Learn that in a series circuit components are joined in one loop, the same current flows through each, voltage is shared, adding bulbs makes each dimmer and one break stops all, and draw and build series circuits with 1.5 V cells.
Lesson 5Parallel circuits introduction
Learn that in a parallel circuit components are on separate branches, each branch gets the full voltage, bulbs stay equally bright, one break does not stop the others, and compare parallel with series for home wiring ideas. All practical work uses 1.5 V cells only.
Lesson 6Conductors
Learn that electrical conductors allow current to flow easily, that most metals and graphite conduct, why metals conduct (free electrons), and test materials in a 1.5 V circuit. Never test mains or any wall socket.
Lesson 7Insulators
Learn that insulators do not let current flow, that plastic, rubber, glass, wood and air insulate, why they are used to cover wires and handles, and design an insulated handle. Never test mains.
Lesson 8Magnets
Learn that magnets attract magnetic materials (iron, steel, nickel, cobalt), have north and south poles, like poles repel and unlike attract, magnetise objects by stroking, and compare strength by testing. Use only small safe magnets.
Lesson 9Magnetic fields introduction
Learn that a magnetic field is the region around a magnet where it exerts a force, that field lines run from north to south, that plotting compasses show the shape, and that Earth’s magnetic field guides compasses and protects us from solar wind. Use compasses; no loose iron filings.
Lesson 10Electrical safety
Learn the rules for staying safe around electricity at home and school, mains electricity is dangerous, never touch sockets, keep water away, use fuses and circuit breakers, respect power lines and what to do in an emergency.