3-ELE-01
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Contents
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 worksheet to investigating charging by friction
- Then demo charging by friction using 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
Textbook References
Website References
Skills Addressed
- Observations during experiments