IGCSE Physics: Series Circuits | Edexcel Modular | Unit 2 | L6

IGCSE Physics: Series Circuits | Edexcel Modular | Unit 2 | L6

This lesson covers spec points 2.17 and 2.19 — knowing that current is the
same at every point in a series circuit, and knowing how to calculate total
voltage and total resistance for components in series.

PowerPoint includes:
• Retrieval starter reviewing V = IR and resistance from L3
• Direct Instruction (I Do) — series circuit defined; current rule stated and
explained; voltage sharing rule explained with worked example; total
resistance = R₁ + R₂; full worked example calculating total resistance,
current and individual voltages; voltage check using conservation of energy
• Guided Practice (We Do) — three calculations: find total resistance; find
current; find voltage across individual components
• Independent Practice (You Do) — series circuit calculations; predict effects
of adding or removing components; explain what happens when a bulb breaks
• Review and Reflect — 3 MCQs and exit ticket

Activity Sheet includes:
• Formula box: V = IR; V_total = V₁ + V₂; R_total = R₁ + R₂
• Circuit diagram drawing tasks in Q5 and Q8 (with mark scheme diagrams)
• 10 exam-style questions with progressive difficulty covering all series
circuit rules, calculations and multi-step problems
• Stretch question: variable resistor controlling lamp brightness — calculate
maximum and minimum current and voltage
• Full mark scheme with circuit diagrams for teacher use