Quick answer: A simple electric circuit is a complete, closed loop of conductors that joins a cell to components such as a bulb and a switch. This grade 6 science test on simple circuits has 8 questions worth 20 marks, to do in 45 minutes: labelled circuit, conductor and insulator and torch that fails. The mark scheme is on a separate page; free printable PDF.
This test lasts 45 minutes and is worth 20 points. Use correct names for components and write clear reasons about gaps and loops. A ruler is useful for drawing circuit diagrams.
Level: Grade 6 science (Year 7 · Class 6) · Curriculum: MS-PS2-3
Question 1 Labelled circuit (4 marks)
Firstly, the diagram shows a simple circuit.- Name component W. (1 mark)
- Then name component X. (1 mark)
- After that, name component Y. (1 mark)
- Finally, explain why the bulb is off. (1 mark)
Question 2 Conductor and insulator (2 marks)
Define the terms conductor and insulator, and give one example of each.Question 3 Torch that fails (3 marks)
Aarav puts a new cell into his torch but the bulb will not light. A thin plastic film stays on the metal contact of the cell, so you must explain why the bulb stays off.Question 4 Sorting objects (2 marks)
You test a steel spoon, a wooden ruler, a copper pipe and a glass jar. Then state which two are conductors.Question 5 Drawing a circuit (3 marks)
Draw a circuit diagram containing a cell, a closed switch and a bulb, joined in one loop. Then label each component.Question 6 Mains warning (2 marks)
Explain why students never use a mains socket in a school experiment on circuits.Question 7 Cable covering (2 marks)
Explain why electrical cables have a plastic covering, although the wire inside is metal.Question 8 Door alarm (2 marks)
Wanjiru builds a model door alarm. A lamp is in a circuit with a gap. Also, a strip of aluminium foil on the door fills the gap when the door is shut. Then explain why the lamp is on when the door is shut and goes off when the door opens.
