IGCSE Physics: Parallel Circuits | Edexcel Modular | Unit 2 | L7

IGCSE Physics: Parallel Circuits | Edexcel Modular | Unit 2 | L7

This lesson covers spec points 2.7, 2.17 and 2.18 — knowing that voltage is
the same across each branch of a parallel circuit, that total current is the
sum of branch currents, and explaining why parallel circuits are used for
domestic lighting.

PowerPoint includes:
• Retrieval starter reviewing series circuit rules from L6
• Direct Instruction (I Do) — parallel circuit defined; voltage rule stated and
explained; current rule stated: I_total = I₁ + I₂; current calculated for
each branch using I = V/R; junction rule explained; domestic lighting
application revisited and justified
• Guided Practice (We Do) — three tasks: state voltage across each branch;
calculate branch currents; find total current
• Independent Practice (You Do) — parallel circuit calculations; explain why
a broken branch doesn’t affect others; compare series and parallel
• Review and Reflect — 3 MCQs and exit ticket

Activity Sheet includes:
• Formula box: V₁ = V₂ = V_supply; I_total = I₁ + I₂
• Circuit drawing tasks in Q5 and Q8, with vertical-resistor parallel
circuit diagrams in the mark scheme
• 10 exam-style questions covering voltage and current rules, branch
calculations, domestic lighting and circuit comparison
• Stretch question: three-branch parallel circuit — calculate all branch
currents, total current, and justify that total resistance is less than
the smallest branch resistance
• Full mark scheme with circuit diagrams for teacher use