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This “Component Characteristics Required Practical” PowerPoint lesson is designed for AQA GCSE Physics students to investigate the resistance of different components, including a fixed resistor, a filament lamp, and a diode. The lesson follows the AQA Required Practical method, ensuring students understand how to set up circuits, collect data and analyze I-V graphs.
The lesson begins with a starter activity to assess prior knowledge of circuit components. Students answer key questions about LDRs, diodes, thermistors, LEDs, and fixed resistors, reinforcing their understanding of how resistance changes under different conditions. This prepares them for the practical investigation by linking component behavior to measurable electrical properties.
Students then explore the aim of the required practical - to investigate how the resistance of a fixed resistor, filament bulb, and diode varies with potential difference. The lesson provides a step-by-step guide for setting up the circuit using a power pack, ammeter, voltmeter, and variable resistor. Instructions include how to reverse current flow by swapping circuit connections, allowing students to observe the behavior of diodes.
The data collection phase includes filling in a results table for current and voltage readings for each component. Students use their recorded data to plot I-V graphs, analyzing how resistance changes in each case. The PowerPoint features pre-drawn axes for graph plotting and sample datasets to support learners.
To reinforce learning, students answer GCSE-style questions that test their ability to interpret I-V graphs. They identify ohmic and non-ohmic resistors, explain why filament bulbs have increasing resistance at higher temperatures, and describe why diodes allow current flow in only one direction. The lesson also includes simulation and video links for students who may need additional support.
This editable PowerPoint (.pptx) file aligns with the AQA GCSE Physics Required Practical Specification and provides structured guidance, interactive tasks, and real-world applications, making it an essential resource for mastering component characteristics and resistance investigations in GCSE Physics. Updated in February 2025, it ensures students gain hands-on experience with key electrical principles and data analysis skills.
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AQA GCSE Foundation Combined Science Physics: All Required Practicals
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GCSE Physics Electricity Bundle: 13-Lesson Unit
This GCSE Electricity bundle provides a comprehensive and structured series of lessons designed to support students in mastering key concepts related to electrical circuits, resistance, power, and the National Grid. Covering essential theory, practical applications, and required practicals, this resource follows the GCSE Physics specification and is ideal for both classroom teaching and independent revision. What’s Included in the Bundle? This resource includes 13 fully planned PowerPoint lessons, each designed to engage students with clear explanations, worked examples, and interactive activities. Topics covered include: 1. Introduction to Electrical Circuits – Understanding circuit components, symbols, and simple circuit diagrams. 2. Current and Charge – Definition of electric current, its relationship with charge, and how it is measured. 3. Voltage and Potential Difference – Explanation of voltage (potential difference) and its effect on circuit components. 4. Voltage & Current in Series and Parallel Circuits – Key differences in current and voltage distribution in series and parallel circuits. 5. Resistance and Ohm’s Law (V = IR) – Explanation of resistance, how it affects circuits, and calculations using Ohm’s Law. 6. Required Practical: Investigating Resistance – Experimental investigation on how resistance changes with the length of a wire. 7. Component Characteristics – Understanding IV characteristics of fixed resistors, filament lamps, and diodes. 8. Required Practical: Component Characteristics – Investigating I-V graphs of different circuit components. 9. Required Practical: Resistance in Series and Parallel Circuits – Understanding how adding resistors affects total resistance in a circuit. 10. Alternating Current, Direct Current & The National Grid – Explanation of AC vs. DC, UK mains electricity, and National Grid transmission. 11. Cables and Plugs – Understanding the structure, safety features, and function of plugs and cables. 12. Electrical Power & Resistance Heating – How electrical appliances convert energy, including power calculations. 13. Efficiency and Cost of Appliances – Exploring energy efficiency, cost calculations, and real-world applications. Key Features: 1. Exam-Focused Content – Aligned with the GCSE Physics specification, ensuring curriculum coverage. 2. Interactive & Engaging – Includes starter activities, worked examples, and practice questions. 3. Clear Explanations & Visuals – Well-structured slides with circuit diagrams, formula breakdowns, and I-V graphs. 4. Practical & Required Practicals Included – Step-by-step practical investigations for resistance, component characteristics, and circuit behavior. Who is This Resource For? GCSE Physics students following the AQA specification. Teachers looking for complete, ready-to-use lessons with well-structured content and practical guidance. Tutors and independent learners seeking clear, concise, and exam-relevant resources. This bundle provides a full unit of study on electricity, helping students develop problem-solving skills, master calculations, and apply their knowledge to practical scenarios. Download now to enhance your GCSE Physics lessons with this high-quality, curriculum-aligned resource!
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Saved loads of my planning time. Thank you for providing example data and graphs because my school unfortunately lacks the equipment to do this.
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