Science·Energy·conceptual
Conductors and insulators
Recognise some common conductors and insulators, and associate metals with being good conductors of electricity
Suggested ages 8–9
Learning journey
Your child is discovering how electricity works — building simple circuits with batteries and bulbs, understanding how switches control electrical flow, and learning which materials conduct electricity and which don't.
Evidence of understanding
- Define conductors (allow electricity to flow through) and insulators (block electricity)
- Test at least six materials and correctly classify them as conductors or insulators
- State that metals are generally good conductors and explain why wires are made of metal with plastic coating
Assessment prompt
Can Conductors and insulators test objects in a circuit and explain why metal objects let electricity through but rubber and plastic don't?
Standards alignment
Y4.Sci.E.5GB · uk-nc-2013
Conductors and insulators
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2