FREE SCIENCE LESSON – “Current Electricity – Conductors and Insulators – What and Why”


by Elf Off the Shelf
5th – 9th Grade



This animated PowerPoint defines the terms conductor and insulator. It then takes students through designing a circuit to test a range of materials and a table in which to record their results. It includes a simple explanation of conductors and insulators in terms of low and high resistance. It also includes an interactive five question exit ticket quiz in which students answer A, B or C to each question by a show of hands or a card. This also provides instant feedback to the teacher on pupil progress.

Learning Outcomes

All will

  • Know that conductors conduct electricity.
  • Know that insulators do not conduct electricity.
  • Know that metals are conductors.
  • Know that non-metals are insulators .
  • Know that graphite is a non-metal that conducts.

Most Will

  • Be able to design a results table.
  • Be able to design a circuit to test whether materials conduct.
  • Be able to set up a circuit from sketches

Some will

  • Be able to explain why some materials are conductors and others are insulators.

This PowerPoint is also available as part of a a full resourced pack with 13 original and engaging pupil resources, answer PowerPoint and lesson plan.

Click here for more resources on electricity for middle school

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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Current-Electricity-Conductors-and-Insulators-What-and-Why-4240673

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