Basic Principle of Electricity

I. Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

 Define electricity and its basic components.

 Explain the difference between conductors and insulators.
 Describe the flow of electric current.
 Identify the factors that affect electric current.
 Apply Ohm's Law to calculate voltage, current, and resistance.
 Understand the basic principles of electric circuits.
 Explain the dangers of electricity and safety precautions.

II. Introduction

Electricity is a fundamental part of our modern world. It powers our homes, lights our
cities, and runs our machines. But what exactly is electricity? How does it work?

In simple terms, electricity is the flow of electric charge. This charge is carried by tiny
particles called electrons. Electrons are found in atoms, which are the building blocks of all
matter. In most materials, the electrons are tightly bound to the atoms and cannot move
freely. However, in some materials, the electrons are loosely bound and can be easily pushed
from one atom to another. These materials are called conductors, and they allow electricity to
flow through them.

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Electric current flow

On the other hand, some materials have tightly bound electrons and resist the flow of
electricity. These materials are called insulators. They are used to insulate wires and prevent
electrical shocks.
 The flow of electric current is measured in amperes (amps). The amount of current that flows
through a conductor depends on two factors: voltage and resistance.

 Voltage is the pressure that pushes the electrons through the conductor. It is measured in volts
(V).
 Resistance is the opposition to the flow of current. It is measured in ohms (Ω).

The relationship between voltage, current, and resistance is described by Ohm's Law:

I=V/R

where:

 I is the current in amps (A)

 V is the voltage in volts (V)
 R is the resistance in ohms (Ω)

Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle of electricity. It can be used to calculate any of the
three quantities (I, V, or R) if the other two are known.

Electric circuits are made up of conductors, insulators, and other components that are
connected together to allow the flow of electricity. There are two basic types of circuits:

 Open circuits: These circuits have a break in the conductor, so the current cannot flow.
 Closed circuits: These circuits have a complete path for the current to flow, so the current can
flow freely.

Electricity can be dangerous if not handled properly. It can cause electric shocks, fires, and
even death. It is important to always follow safety precautions when working with electricity,
such as:

 Never touch live wires.

 Always wear insulated gloves and shoes.
 Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
 Turn off the power before working on electrical equipment.

By understanding the basic principles of electricity, you can use it safely and effectively in
your everyday life.

I hope this introduction gives you a basic understanding of electricity. In the next session, we
will delve deeper into the different components of electricity and how they work together.
III. Learning Process

A. Activity: KWL Chart

Step 1. Write brief statements in the second column (KNOW) about what you know
of the topics listed in the first column.
Topics What I know What I want to What I learned
know
Electric Charge &
Electrons
Voltage, Current, &
Resistance
Electric Circuits
Dangers & Safety
Real-world
Applications

Step 2. Form a group where you can share and discuss what you have written in the
second column. Afterwards, fill-out the third column (WANT).
Step 3. After the group sharing, fill-out the fourth column (LEARNED) with what
you have learned after the group sharing.

B. Analysis: Examining Your Assessment Practices

Instruction: Examine your assessment practices with the guide questions provided.
Write your answers in the space provided below.
 Questions Answer
1. Imagine you have two
materials, one conductor
and one insulator. Can
you create a simple
experiment to
demonstrate the
difference in how they
allow electric charge to
flow? What would you
measure and how would
you interpret the results?
2. How does Ohm's Law
change if the temperature
of a conductor increases?
Explain your reasoning
based on the movement
of electrons and
resistance.
3. Compare and contrast
series and parallel
circuits. How does the
total resistance in each
type of circuit depend on
the individual resistances
of its components? Can
you create a situation
where both types of
circuits have the same
overall resistance?
4. Beyond traditional wires,
what other materials or
phenomena can conduct
electricity? How can this
knowledge be applied in
real-world technologies,
such as solar panels or
batteries?
5. With the increasing
reliance on electricity,
what are the biggest
challenges and
opportunities in terms of
safety and sustainability?
Propose solutions or
advancements that could
address these concerns.

C. Abstraction
The Fundamental Buzz: Exploring the Basic Principles of Electricity

Electricity, the invisible force that powers our modern world, is often taken for granted. But
what exactly is it, and how does it work? Let's delve into the fundamental principles that
illuminate our cities and energize our devices.

Charge Carriers: Imagine a tiny, negatively charged particle called an electron. In most
materials, these electrons are tightly bound to atoms, like bees buzzing around their hive. But
in conductors, like metals, some electrons are free spirits, ready to move when prompted.

Opens in a new window www.techtarget.com

atom with electrons

The Push and Pull: What prompts these electrons to roam? Voltage, a kind of electrical
pressure, acts like a gentle nudge, pushing them through the conductor. Think of it as a
battery creating a voltage difference, similar to a water pump generating pressure in a pipe.

Resistance Roadblocks: Not all paths are smooth for our electron friends. Resistance, like the
friction in a car's brakes, opposes their flow. The more tightly packed the atoms in a material,
the higher the resistance, making it harder for electrons to zip through.

Current Flow: Now, imagine a connected path of conductors, like a highway for electrons.
When voltage is applied, the electrons start their journey, creating a continuous flow called
current. This current, measured in amperes (amps), is the lifeblood of electricity.

Ohm's Law: The Golden Rule: But how do these three players - voltage, current, and
resistance - relate to each other? Ohm's Law, the golden rule of electricity, states that current
is directly proportional to voltage and inversely proportional to resistance. It's like a recipe:
knowing two ingredients (voltage and resistance), you can calculate the third (current).

Circuits: The Playground: Now, let's connect some wires, batteries, and resistors to create a
circuit, the playground where electricity comes alive! Open circuits, with a broken path, are
like a swingset with a missing chain - no flow. Closed circuits, with a complete loop, are like
a merry-go-round, with electrons circling happily.
Safety First: Remember, electricity, though fascinating, can be dangerous. Treat it with
respect! Always use proper insulation, avoid overloading circuits, and stay informed about
safety precautions.

This is just a basic spark to ignite your understanding of electricity. As you explore deeper,
you'll discover how these principles power our homes, fuel our machines, and even light up
the night sky with lightning!

D. Application

Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________

Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________

Activity 1. ESSAY (in 500 words)

Instruction: Write an ESSAY about the importance of Basic Principle of Electricicity.

4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
1. Organization Clear and logical Mostly organized Lacks clear Disorganized with
and Structure structure; strong with some organization and no clear structure
introduction, inconsistencies; structure
smooth flow, and follows a basic
satisfying structure
conclusion
2. Language and Excellent use of Some use of Lacks consistent Lack of descriptive
Descriptive descriptive descriptive use of descriptive language and
Details language and vivid language and language; relies on meaningful details
details details general statements
3. Character Effective Some Insufficient Characters are
Development development of characterization, character underdeveloped or
characters; provides but could be further development unclear
insight into developed in places
personalities,
actions, and
motivations
4. Grammar and Strong grammar, Minor errors that do Noticeable errors Numerous errors
Mechanics spelling, and not significantly that affect hindering
punctuation with impact readability readability comprehension
 4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
very few or no
errors
Total Points

Activity 2. Quiz
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________
Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.
1. Which material would allow electrons to flow most freely?

a) Rubber
b) Copper
c) Wood
d) Plastic

2. What happens to the resistance of a wire as its temperature increases?

a) It increases.
b) It decreases.
c) It remains constant.
d) It becomes unpredictable.

3. In a series circuit, if one bulb burns out, what happens to the other bulbs?

a) They all burn brighter.

b) They all dim slightly.
c) They all turn off.
d) Only the burnt bulb turns off.
4. What unit is used to measure voltage?

a) Ampere (A)
b) Volt (V)
c) Ohm (Ω)
d) Joule (J)

5. Which statement about Ohm's Law is FALSE?

a) It relates voltage, current, and resistance.

b) It can be used to calculate any of the three quantities if the others are known.
c) It applies equally to all circuits, regardless of complexity.
d) It assumes a constant resistance in the circuit.

Bonus:

6. What is the main difference between AC and DC electricity?

a) AC flows continuously in one direction, while DC pulsates back and forth.

b) AC is stronger than DC.
c) DC is safer than AC.
d) They are both the same thing, just named differently.
Answer Key:

1. b) Copper

2. a) It increases.

3. d) Only the burnt bulb turns off.

4. b) Volt (V)

5. c) It applies equally to all circuits, regardless of complexity.

Bonus:

6. a) AC flows continuously in one direction, while DC pulsates back and forth.

V. References

HyperPhysics. (n.d.). Ohm's law. Retrieved from http://hyperphysics.phy-

astr.gsu.edu/
Khan Academy. (n.d.). Electricity and magnetism. Retrieved from
https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/magnetic-forces-and-magnetic-fields
The Physics Classroom. (n.d.). Electric circuits. Retrieved from
https://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/circuits
United States Department of Labor. (2023, October 4). Basic Electricity. Retrieved
from https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/electrical_safety.pdf
University of California, Berkeley. (2023, September 19). Basic Electrical Concepts.
Retrieved from https://hr.berkeley.edu/uc-learning-center-lms