Steps for the Teacher to do Make 2 versions of the picture but put the faulty bulb in one of the circuits
Overview In life, people face problems that need to be solved. Sometimes the problem may be how to construct something new. It may be finding out how to fix something that isn’t working. Whatever the problem, there are certain strategies that can make the job of problem solving easier. In this lesson, a step-by-step problem solving technique will be developed that you can use to test electric circuits.
Materials Box with battery, 2 wires, bulb, battery holder, and bulb socket Another 6 inch wire per student Activity Sheet 3 per student Troubleshooting with Circuits Sheet per student 6 pieces of wire for the teacher 2 battery holders with batteries for the teacher 1 faulty bulb in a socket for the teacher 1 bulb in a socket for the teacher
Troubleshooting Techniques Problem Solving Strategies Practice isolating the problem and figuring out how to fix it Things to try before you have to ask someone for help
Activity Sheet 3
Connect the wires of the 2 circuits created by the teacher earlier so see the bulb come on How would you figure out how to make the bulb in the second circuit light? Make a list of the responses. Label it “troubleshooting strategies.”
Troubleshooting Strategies Wire connection-tightly secure, wiggle gently to check not loose – touch wires to check again Battery-in holder tight, ends are touching the holder- touch wires to check again Bulb-securely screwed but not too much-touch wires to check again Take battery and a different bulb and connect to wire like lesson 2 Take bulb and a different battery and connect to wire like lesson 2
Create a testing circuit Get another 6 inch wire Draw circuit tester on the board and leave it put together as a model to follow. Assemble own testing circuit
Closing Disassemble all parts and place them back in your box. With partner – review the troubleshooting processes learned today Troubleshooting = technique for solving problems Can use these techniques whenever equipment is not working properly. If you find a faulty bulb or battery, bring it to me.
Extensions Place 3 or 4 circuits that have different faults in them such as a loose connection, a burned-out bulb, or a drained battery and figure out what is wrong with the circuit. Interview parents about problem solving. Ask how they solved a problem around the house or with the car. Write a brief account o the strategy that was used.
The End!!!