Class: Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS 3 / JS3)
Term: Third Term
Week: 4
Age: 14 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Basic Science and Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Technology
Previous Lesson: Basic Electronics: Basic Emission Theory.
Topic: Basic Electronics II
Subject Matter: Components
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain:
- Define basic electronic components.
- Identify common electronic components.
- State the functions of various electronic components.
Affective Domain:
- Appreciate the importance of electronic components in daily life.
- Show interest in exploring electronic circuits.
- Value the precision required in handling electronic components.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Draw the standard symbols of common electronic components.
- Distinguish between active and passive electronic components.
Social Domain:
- Work collaboratively to discuss different electronic components.
- Share ideas on where electronic components are used.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Basic Science and Technology JSS 3.
- State Unified Scheme of Work for Basic Science and Technology JSS 3.
- Adeyemi, P. A. (2018). Basic Science and Technology for Junior Secondary Schools Book 3. Longman Nigeria Plc.
- www.jst.gov.ng
- www.curriculum.waec.org.ng
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Charts showing diagrams and symbols of various electronic components (resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors).
- Actual samples of electronic components (e.g., resistors, capacitors, diodes, LEDs, transistors).
- A multimeter.
- A breadboard and connecting wires (if practical demonstration is intended).
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding electronic components is important because they are the building blocks of all electronic devices. This lesson helps pupils to identify and know the function of these components, which is foundational for understanding how electronic gadgets work and for potential future careers in electronics.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have prior knowledge of basic electricity, simple circuits, and an introduction to electronics from the previous lesson.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Basic Electronic Components
Introduction to Electronic Components
Electronic components are individual basic electronic elements or parts used in electronic circuits. They are connected together, usually by soldering to a printed circuit board (PCB), to create an electronic circuit with a particular function.
Types of Electronic Components
Electronic components can be broadly classified into two main types:
- Passive Components: These components cannot control current by means of another electrical signal. They do not require an external power source to operate. Examples include resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
- Active Components: These components can control current by means of another electrical signal. They require an external power source to operate and are capable of power amplification. Examples include diodes and transistors.
Common Passive Components
- Resistor:
A resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element. Its main function is to limit current flow and divide voltage within a circuit.
Symbol: (A zigzag line with two terminals)
- Capacitor:
A capacitor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It can block DC current while allowing AC current to pass through.
Symbol: (Two parallel lines with two terminals, one curved for polarized capacitors)
- Inductor:
An inductor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through it. It resists changes in current.
Symbol: (A coil/helix with two terminals)
Common Active Components
- Diode:
A diode is a two-terminal electronic component that conducts current primarily in one direction. It has low resistance to current in one direction (forward bias) and high resistance in the other (reverse bias).
Symbol: (A triangle pointing to a line, with two terminals)
- Transistor:
A transistor is a semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. It is one of the fundamental building blocks of modern electronic devices.
Symbol: (Various symbols depending on type e.g., NPN, PNP, showing emitter, base, collector terminals)
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils, reviews the previous lesson on basic electronics, and introduces the topic of electronic components by asking pupils to name some parts of common electronic devices.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the greetings, recall the previous lesson, and mention parts like wires, batteries, and bulbs.
Learning Point: Pupils connect previous knowledge to the new topic.
Step 2: Definition of Electronic Components
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines electronic components, explaining they are the basic building blocks of electronic circuits. The teacher writes the definition on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively, ask questions for clarity, and copy the definition into their notebooks.
Learning Point: Pupils understand what electronic components are.
Step 3: Types of Electronic Components
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Classification/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the two main types of electronic components: active and passive components, providing a brief explanation and examples for each.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and participate in a brief discussion on the differences between active and passive components.
Learning Point: Pupils can differentiate between active and passive electronic components.
Step 4: Passive Components
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher discusses common passive components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The teacher shows actual samples or diagrams, explains their functions, and draws their symbols on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the components, identify them, and copy the functions and symbols into their notes.
Learning Point: Pupils identify and understand the function and symbol of common passive components.
Step 5: Active Components
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher discusses common active components like diodes and transistors. The teacher shows actual samples or diagrams, explains their functions, and draws their symbols on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the components, identify them, and copy the functions and symbols into their notes.
Learning Point: Pupils identify and understand the function and symbol of common active components.
Step 6: Identification and Application
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Application
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher holds up various components or points to diagrams and asks pupils to identify them, state their type (active/passive), and mention a possible use.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils identify the components, state their type, and suggest applications.
Learning Point: Pupils can identify various components and their basic applications.
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- What are electronic components?
- Differentiate between active and passive electronic components.
- Mention two examples of passive components and state one function for each.
- Draw the symbol for a resistor and a diode.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.
Step 8: Conclusion
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization/Assignment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of electronic components. The teacher assigns homework: “Research and write down two more examples of active and passive components not discussed in class.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and copy the homework.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are encouraged to research further.
Lesson Keywords
- Resistor – An electronic component that limits current flow.
- Capacitor – An electronic component that stores electrical energy.
- Diode – An electronic component that allows current to flow in one direction.
- Transistor – An electronic component used for amplifying or switching electronic signals.
- Active Components – Components that can control current and require external power.
- Passive Components – Components that cannot control current and do not require external power.
- Electronics – The branch of physics and technology concerned with the design of circuits using electronic components.
Differentiation
For struggling learners, the teacher will provide simplified diagrams and focus on identifying components by their physical appearance and basic function. Advanced learners will be encouraged to research the specific applications of different types of components, such as different types of capacitors or transistors, and to understand their internal structure.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
It is highly recommended to bring actual electronic components to the class for pupils to observe and handle. This practical exposure enhances understanding and engagement. Ensure safety precautions are taken if any live circuits are demonstrated. Encourage pupils to look for these components in discarded electronic devices.

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