Science·Energy·conceptual
Current, voltage, and what they measure
Understand that electric current is the rate of flow of charge (measured in amperes using an ammeter), and that potential difference (voltage) is the energy transferred per unit charge (measured in volts using a voltmeter)
Suggested ages 11–12
Evidence of understanding
- States that current is measured in amperes (A) and is the rate at which charge flows around a circuit
- States that potential difference (voltage) is measured in volts (V) and represents energy transferred per unit charge
- Correctly connects an ammeter in series and a voltmeter in parallel when building or interpreting a circuit
Assessment prompt
If Current, voltage, and what they measure sets up a circuit with an ammeter and a voltmeter, can they explain what each one is measuring and describe the difference between current and voltage?
Standards alignment
MS-PS2-3US · ngss-ms
MS-PS2-3
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School