Circuit Construction Kit

This engaging online activity allows students to create DC circuits and observe their behaviors. Cells, resistors, light bulbs, switches, and wires are provided for circuit construction. The student can use voltmeters and ammeters to measure potential difference and current, and can observe the brightness of light bulbs in different kinds of DC circuits. The student can toggle between schematic and real-life views. Lesson plans for teachers are accessible on this site. Students sometimes struggle with identification of series and parallel arrangements of components in DC circuits. Using this simulation, they can practice constructing various kinds of circuits, including series, parallel, and combination arrangements. They can also practice measuring current by placing an ammeter in series, and practice measuring potential difference by placing a voltmeter in parallel. Because students can toggle between real-life and schematic views of the circuits they are constructing, this simulation helps them relate schematic diagrams to the actual circuit. The illustration of moving charge is a useful part of this simulation because it helps the student understand that electrical current involves the motion of charges within a circuit.