Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify and describe the basic elements of DC electric circuits.
• Sketch the circuit symbols for various circuit elements.
• Distinguish between active and passive circuit elements.
• Classify circuit elements into active and passive categories.
• Explain the differences between electric and electronic circuits.

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces the fundamental building blocks of all electrical and electronic devices we use every day in Ghana. From the simple torchlight ("torch") that guides us during a power outage ("dumsor") to the complex smartphone we use to connect with family, everything works because of circuits. Understanding these basic elements is the first step to becoming an engineer, a technician, or simply a knowledgeable user who can safely interact with technology. This knowledge is crucial for troubleshooting simple problems, for safety at home, and for appreciating the technology that powers our modern world.

Lesson notes

This section breaks down the core ideas you need to understand. We will go through them one by one. A. What is an Electric Circuit?

Think of the water supply system in your school or home. There are pipes that carry water from a source (like a Polytank) to a destination (like a tap).

An electric circuit is very similar. It is a complete, closed path through which electric current can flow. If the path is broken at any point, the current stops flowing, just as water stops flowing if a pipe is cut.

A simple circuit must have three things: An Energy Source: This is the "pump" that pushes the electricity. Example: A battery. A Load: This is the device that uses the electricity to do work. Example: A light bulb, a fan motor. A Conductor: This is the "pipe" that carries the electricity. Example: Copper wires. B. Electric Circuits vs. Electronic Circuits

Evaluation guide

• conceptual
• understanding
• reasoning
• Level 4