Knowledge organiser - Electricity - Year 6

The Year 6 electricity knowledge organiser provides essential terminology and concepts for students to understand the fundamentals of electrical science. It begins with the definition of a circuit, which is described as a complete path that allows an electrical current to flow. The vocabulary section continues with 'conductor', defining it as a material or object that permits the flow of electrical current in one or more directions. In contrast, an 'insulator' is characterised as a material that does not allow internal electric charges to flow freely. The organiser also distinguishes between a 'battery', which is a device that stores and provides chemical energy in an electrical form, and a 'cell', which is used to generate electricity. Furthermore, an 'appliance' is defined as a device that utilises electricity to perform a specific function.

Key knowledge points for Year 6 students include understanding what electricity is and recognising its significance in everyday life. Students are expected to be familiar with common electrical appliances and know how to construct a simple series electrical circuit. They should be able to identify and name basic components of a circuit, such as cells, wires, bulbs, switches, and buzzers, and understand the role of a switch in opening and closing a circuit. Additionally, the organiser highlights the importance of knowing about common conductors and insulators. This foundational knowledge prepares students for more advanced learning and practical applications of electricity in their science curriculum.