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Lesson Note on Measuring Instruments: Types, Differences And Uses Of Multimeter for SS1

This lesson note on Measuring Instruments for SS1 covers types, analogue vs digital multimeter, and practical uses.

ByPublishedJan 31, 2026Reading8 minComments0

Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1 / SSS 1)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 10
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: GSM Maintenance And Repairs
Curriculum Theme: Trade
Previous Lesson: Power Supply And Amplifiers: Meaning, Types And Uses Of Amplifiers.
Topic: Measuring Instrument
Subject Matter: Types of electronic measuring instruments, Differences between analogue and digital multimeter, Uses of electronic measuring instruments

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

  • Define electronic measuring instruments.
  • List at least three types of electronic measuring instruments.
  • State three differences between an analogue and a digital multimeter.
  • Explain at least three uses of electronic measuring instruments.

Affective Domain:

  • Appreciate the importance of using appropriate measuring instruments in GSM repairs.
  • Show interest in learning how to properly handle and use measuring instruments.
  • Value accuracy when taking measurements of electronic components.

Psychomotor Domain:

  • Identify an analogue and a digital multimeter.
  • Demonstrate the basic use of a multimeter to test simple electronic components.
  • Select the correct range on a multimeter for a given measurement.

Social Domain:

  • Collaborate with peers when practicing the use of measuring instruments.
  • Share knowledge about the functions of different measuring instruments.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

  • 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Basic Technology (JSS 1-3) & Trade Subjects (SSS 1-3).
  • State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools.
  • Basic Electronics and GSM Repairs Handbook by Engr. John Adebayo.

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

  • Analogue multimeter
  • Digital multimeter
  • Test probes
  • Circuit board with various components (resistors, capacitors, diodes)

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand how to use tools for checking electronic devices. Learning about measuring instruments enables pupils to identify faults and ensure proper functionality of GSM phones and other electronic gadgets, which is an important practical skill.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils are expected to have basic knowledge of simple electrical circuits and common electronic components like resistors and capacitors.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

Electronic Measuring Instruments

Definition of Electronic Measuring Instruments

Electronic measuring instruments are tools used to quantify electrical quantities and properties of electronic components and circuits. They help in diagnosing faults, testing functionality, and ensuring proper operation of electronic devices.

Types of Electronic Measuring Instruments

The following are common types of electronic measuring instruments:

  • Multimeter (Analogue and Digital)
  • Oscilloscope
  • Logic Analyzer
  • Spectrum Analyzer
  • Frequency Counter
  • Capacitance Meter
  • Inductance Meter

Analogue Multimeter

An analogue multimeter is a measuring instrument that uses a moving needle or pointer on a calibrated scale to display the measured value. It can measure voltage (voltmeter), current (ammeter), and resistance (ohmmeter).

The following are characteristics of an analogue multimeter:

  • Displays readings using a needle on a scale.
  • Requires interpretation of scale divisions.
  • Often needs battery for resistance measurement.
  • Can be sensitive to physical shock.

Digital Multimeter (DMM)

A digital multimeter is a measuring instrument that displays the measured value as a numerical readout on a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light-emitting diode (LED) screen. It also measures voltage, current, and resistance, and often includes additional functions.

The following are characteristics of a digital multimeter:

  • Displays readings as precise numbers on an LCD.
  • Easier to read and provides exact values.
  • Often has auto-ranging features.
  • Less prone to reading errors due to parallax.

Differences between Analogue and Digital Multimeters

The following are key differences between analogue and digital multimeters:

  • Display: Analogue uses a needle on a scale; Digital uses a numerical LCD/LED display.
  • Accuracy: Digital multimeters generally offer higher accuracy and precision.
  • Readability: Digital multimeters are easier to read with direct numerical values, while analogue requires interpreting scale markings.
  • Features: Digital multimeters often include advanced features like auto-ranging, data hold, and frequency measurement, which are less common in analogue types.
  • Resistance to Damage: Analogue meters can be damaged by over-voltage more easily than digital ones, which often have protection circuits.
  • Cost: Basic analogue multimeters are often less expensive, but advanced digital multimeters can be more costly.

Uses of Electronic Measuring Instruments

The following are common uses of electronic measuring instruments:

  • Troubleshooting: Identifying faults in electronic circuits by checking voltage levels, current flow, and component resistance.
  • Component Testing: Verifying the functionality and values of individual components like resistors, capacitors, diodes, and transistors.
  • Circuit Analysis: Understanding how different parts of a circuit interact and operate.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring that manufactured electronic products meet specified standards and performance criteria.
  • Repair and Maintenance: Locating and replacing faulty components in devices like GSM phones, computers, and other electronics.
  • Design and Development: Testing prototypes and new circuit designs during the development phase.

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 briefly, and asks pupils about common tools they know for fixing things. The teacher then introduces the topic by showing an analogue and a digital multimeter and asking what they think these instruments are used for.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and observe the instruments.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the concept of measuring instruments and their importance.

Step 2: Types of Electronic Measuring Instruments

Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Listing
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines electronic measuring instruments and lists various types, focusing on the multimeter as the primary example for the lesson. The teacher writes the definition and types on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, take notes, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the definition and identify different types of electronic measuring instruments.

Step 3: Analogue Multimeter

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what an analogue multimeter is, points out its parts (needle, scale, selector switch, test probes), and demonstrates how to select ranges for measuring voltage, current, and resistance. The teacher highlights its characteristics.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration, listen to the explanation, and ask questions.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the features and basic operation of an analogue multimeter.

Step 4: Digital Multimeter

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what a digital multimeter is, points out its parts (LCD display, selector switch, test probes), and demonstrates how to select ranges. The teacher highlights its characteristics and ease of reading.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration, listen, and note key features.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the features and basic operation of a digital multimeter.

Step 5: Differences between Analogue and Digital Multimeters

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Comparison/Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher leads a discussion comparing the two types of multimeters, highlighting their differences in display, accuracy, readability, and features. The teacher writes a summary of the differences on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute to the discussion and copy notes.
Learning Point: Pupils can differentiate between analogue and digital multimeters.

Step 6: Uses of Electronic Measuring Instruments

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Practical Application/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the various uses of electronic measuring instruments, particularly in GSM maintenance and repairs. The teacher then demonstrates how to use a multimeter to test a simple component (e.g., check continuity of a wire, measure resistance of a resistor) on the circuit board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the practical demonstration and, where possible, practice testing simple components under supervision.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the practical applications of measuring instruments and can perform basic tests.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

  1. What are electronic measuring instruments?
  2. Mention three types of electronic measuring instruments.
  3. State two differences between an analogue and a digital multimeter.
  4. List two uses of a multimeter in GSM repairs.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization/Assignment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurements. The teacher then assigns homework: “Draw and label an analogue and a digital multimeter.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and write down the homework assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils reinforce their understanding and are given a task to consolidate learning.

Lesson Keywords

  • Multimeter – An electronic measuring instrument that combines several measurement functions in one unit.
  • Analogue – A type of display that uses a moving pointer or needle on a calibrated scale.
  • Digital – A type of display that shows measured values as numerical digits on a screen.
  • Voltmeter – A device used for measuring electric potential difference between two points in an electric circuit.
  • Ammeter – A device used for measuring the current in a circuit.
  • Ohmmeter – A device used for measuring electrical resistance.
  • Continuity – The presence of a complete path for current flow.

Differentiation

The teacher will provide additional visual aids and real-life examples for pupils who learn best by seeing. For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, they will be encouraged to explore additional functions of the multimeter or assist peers. Practical demonstrations and hands-on activities will cater to kinesthetic learners, while group discussions will support collaborative learning.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure that all safety precautions are observed when handling electronic components and measuring instruments. Emphasize the correct way to hold probes and select ranges to avoid damaging the instruments or components. Encourage pupils to ask questions and allow sufficient time for practical engagement.

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Lesson Note on Measuring Instruments: Types, Differences And Uses Of Multimeter for SS1
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