3-ELE-01

Outcomes

• Pupils understand that atoms have a neutral charge
• Pupils understand that the movement of electrons (through friction)cause insulators to gain electrostatic charge
• Pupils understand that electrostatic charges can apply forces on one another at a distance

Specification References

• 2.19 identify common materials which are electrical conductors or insulators including metals and plastics
• 2.20 recall that insulating materials can be charged by friction
• 2.21 explain that positive and negative elecrostatic charges are produced on materials by the loss or gain of electrons
• 2.22 recall that there are forces of attraction between unlike charges and forces of repulsion between like charges

Starter

• Structure of an atom recap – get pupils to label each part of the atom (use the small white boards in each classroom)
• Extend the pupils' knowledge of the atom by giving them the scale of the nucleus and atom (order of magnitude - mention Ångström)
• Remind pupils about the idea of a 'balanced' atom (no charge), no. protons = no. electrons

Main Body of Lesson

• Use this
• Charging by friction - Rod rubbing: Water stream, bits of paper, other rods on yoke hanging by a thread, Balloon rubbing
• Class note observations to invetigate what is happening and why

Plenary

• Pool class observations
• Conclusions: Only electrons move, only insulators store charge

Additional Information

Resources Required

• Diagram of the atom
• Rods (plastic and metal), cloths, paper bits, yokes hanging by a thread, baloons

Skills Addressed

• Observations during experiments