TEACHING ELECTRICITY

Electricity is a form of energy, a result of theWhat are conductors? They are what carry
existence of electrical charge. Its theory andelectric charges. Most conductors have many free
inseparable effect is probably the most accurateelectrons. A metal doorknob is an example of a
and complete of all scientific theories. Because ofconductor. Objects that generally do not conduct
it, invention of motors, generators, telephones,charges are called insulators.
radio and television, medical gadgets, computersDuring a thunderstorm in 1752, Benjamin Franklin
and nuclear-energy systems have taken place.flew a kite that had a metal tip connected to a
However, the many terms and definitions ofsilk string that acted as a conductor. A key was
electricity make it quite hard to pick up bythen attached to the string at a point near the
students. So here's an outline that can be used byground. When Franklin touched the key it sparked
anyone who might have a hard time lecturingand he could feel the electricity. Note that the
about it.next two who tried this extremely dangerous
What do a TV picture and lightning have inexperiment were killed.
common? They are caused by tiny electricallyThere is also a massive buildup of electrons in a
charged particle called electrons. This flow orcloud. You see lightning when the electrons are
movement of electrons is what we call asfinally discharged or released to the ground.
electricity. Electrical charges cause television setsWhere does electrical energy come from? When
to work and telephones to ring.you plug in an electric fan, you are not really using
What is static electricity? All matter is made ofelectricity. Instead you are using electric power.
atoms and tiny particles held together by electricThe source of this power is a generator. Large
forces. Inside each atom are positively chargedgenerators supply huge quantities of electric
protons and negatively charged electrons. Theypower to your community.
are attracted to each other. A buildup of positiveWhen teaching, your goals must be straight
or negative charges is known as static electricity.forward. Create an outline if you have to. It gives
Example: When you brush your hair on a dry day,you a general flow of what you want to teach
you may see sparks or hear a breaking sound.and allows you to check for loopholes and
This happens because when you brush, manyproblems along the way. To prevent
free electrons gather in your hair. Your brushmisunderstandings, ask lots of questions. As
does not have as many negative charges, so theteachers, your role is to ensure you are
charges from your hair get transferred to theeffectively feeding the right information to your
brush.students.