Year 4 Electricity

In Science this week, Year 4 carried out an investigation to find out which materials are conductors and which are insulators.

We looked at a range of everyday objects including a pencil sharpener, paper clip, string, lollipop stick and tin foil. Before testing the items, the children worked in pairs or small groups of three to make predictions about whether each object would allow electricity to pass through it or not. They discussed their ideas carefully and explained the reasons for their choices.

Once their predictions had been made, the children used a simple circuit to test each item. They observed whether the circuit worked when the object was added and used this to decide whether it was a conductor or an insulator.

The children showed excellent teamwork throughout the lesson, working collaboratively in their groups to test each object and record their findings. They were excited to compare their results with their original predictions and discuss any surprises.

It was a fantastic practical lesson that helped the children develop their understanding of electrical conductivity and the difference between conductors and insulators through hands-on investigation.