How do light bulbs work?
This is a guided inquiry that involves observation of the parts of a light bulb in a lab. It would be nice if students also had access to the internet during this time. As an alternative, printed copies of the information from the internet could be given to the students.
1. Students will understand the flow of eletricity through a lightbulb.
2. Students will understand the role of each of the parts of a lightbulb.
3. Students will compare the efficiency of a standard light bulb and a high efficiency compact fluorescent bulb.
Students will observe the parts of a lightbulb and predict the role of each part of the bulb. They will gather information from web sites and explain the role of each part in writing.
Students will detrmine how electricity flows through a lightbulb.
Students will compare the cost of using a standard light bulb and a high efficiency bulb.
Context for Use
The only equipment required is a lightbulb in which the glass has been removed and an electricial socket that the bulb fits into. Students should have some understanding of circuits, conductors, and insulators before this activity is introduced. I think that it will take about 30 minutes for the students to complete the activity, watch teacher demonstration, and gather information from the web sites.
Resource Type: Activities:Lab Activity, Classroom Activity
Grade Level: High School (9-12)
Description and Teaching Materials
Teaching Notes and Tips
In the past, I have only had students determine the path of electricity in a bulb.