Explore electrical resistance
Testing the electrical resistivity of different materials
In this activity learners will make use of the theme of electrical resistance to experiment with an electronic circuit. They will learn how to use an electronic multimeter and will then apply their skills to test the electrical resistivity of various materials.
This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about resistors and their use. It could also be used as part of a wider scheme of learning focussing on the selection of materials for different applications.
This is one of a series of resources developed in association with the National Grid ESO, to allow learners to use the theme of electronics to develop their knowledge and skills in Design & Technology and Science. This resource focusses on practical experiments investigating the resistance of different materials. National Grid ESO ensure that Great Britain has the essential energy it needs by ensuring supply meets demand every second of every day.
Activity: Explore electrical resistance
The teacher will explain what is meant by resistance and then explain the task to the learners through a series of practical hands-on activities. At the end of the session the teacher will get the learners back together to discuss their findings.
This activity can be simplified (particularly for less able students) by setting up the multimeter in advance to the correct range before handing to learners.
As an extension students could produce a sketch showing which holes on the breadboard are connected to each other and/or investigate the resistance of other materials looking in particular at which materials are the most and least conductive.
This activity is designed to take between 45-70 minutes.
Tools/resources required
- Multimeters (digital or analogue)
- Assorted resistors, including 33kΩ
- Breadboards
- Crocodile clips
- Pencils and paper
- Glass of water
- Table salt
- Selection of materials (for the extension activity)
The engineering context
Many components, such as integrated circuits, can be damaged by high current. An understanding of resistance allows electrical engineers to select resistors to protect these components, ensuring the effective and continued operation of the electronic devices.
Suggested learning outcomes
By the end of this free resource students will be able to choose materials based on their resistivity; understand the basics of resistance; and be able to use electronic devices to measure resistance.
Download the free Explore electrical resistance activity sheet below!
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
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