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Lesson Note on Schematic Diagrams of Series and Parallel Circuits for JSS 3 (JSS3)

This lesson note on schematic diagrams explains series and parallel circuits with clear diagrams and definitions for JSS 3 Basic Science students.

Mercy EgwimByMercy EgwimPublishedDec 22, 2025Reading4 minComments0

Class: Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3, JSS 3)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 8
Age: 14 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Basic Science And Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Technology
Previous Lesson: Machine Motion and Types of Motion in Engineering Systems
Topic: Simple Electrical Wiring (Part 1)
Subject Matter: Schematic diagram of electrical circuit (series and parallel).


Specific Objectives

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

  • Cognitive Domain:
    (a) Explain the meaning of a schematic diagram.
    (b) Differentiate between series and parallel circuits using diagrams.
  • Affective Domain:
    (a) Show interest in electrical wiring diagrams.
    (b) Demonstrate safety consciousness when handling electrical components.
  • Psychomotor Domain:
    (a) Draw simple schematic diagrams of series and parallel circuits correctly.
  • Social Domain:
    (a) Participate actively in group discussions on electrical circuits.

Reference Materials

The following resources was used in planning this lesson:


Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

  • Charts showing series and parallel circuit diagrams
  • Drawing board and markers
  • Flash cards with electrical symbols
  • Sample bulbs, batteries, and connecting wires
  • Projected images of schematic diagrams

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding schematic diagrams helps pupils read, draw, and interpret electrical circuits used in homes and basic devices.


Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils are familiar with basic electrical components such as bulbs, batteries, and wires from previous classes and daily life.


Lesson Content/Board Summary

Schematic Diagrams of Series and Parallel Circuits

Meaning of Schematic Diagram

A schematic diagram is a simple drawing that uses symbols to show how electrical components are connected in a circuit. It helps in understanding and planning electrical wiring clearly.

Examples are:

  1. Battery symbol to represent a power source.
  2. Bulb symbol to represent a lamp.
  3. Straight lines to represent connecting wires.
Series Circuit Diagram

A series circuit is a type of electrical circuit where components are connected in a single path, so electric current flows through each component one after the other.

The following are:

  1. Only one path for current flow.
  2. All components share the same current.
  3. If one component fails, the whole circuit stops working.
Parallel Circuit Diagram

A parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit where components are connected on separate paths, allowing current to flow through more than one path.

These include:

  1. More than one path for current flow.
  2. Each component works independently.
  3. If one component fails, others continue to work.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Explanation, Demonstration, Visual Aids, Question and Answer


Instructional Procedures

To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher asks pupils questions about household electrical appliances and introduces electrical circuits using charts.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and observe displayed materials.
Learning Point: Electrical devices work using circuits.

Step 2: Meaning of Schematic Diagram

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines schematic diagrams and explains common electrical symbols.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and identify symbols on charts.
Learning Point: Schematic diagrams use symbols to represent circuits.

Step 3: Series Circuit Diagram

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher draws a series circuit diagram and explains its features.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe and copy the diagram.
Learning Point: Series circuits have one path for current.

Step 4: Parallel Circuit Diagram

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher draws a parallel circuit diagram and explains its features.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe and compare with series circuits.
Learning Point: Parallel circuits have multiple paths for current.

Step 5: Note-Taking

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to copy the board summary.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils write the lesson notes.
Learning Point: Proper note-taking aids understanding.

Step 6: Evaluation/Review

Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

  1. What is a schematic diagram?
  2. State two features of a series circuit.
  3. Mention one difference between series and parallel circuits.
    Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer questions orally.
    Learning Point: Assessment confirms understanding.

Step 7: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the lesson and corrects misconceptions.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively.
Learning Point: Electrical circuits can be represented using diagrams.


Lesson Keywords

  • Schematic diagram – drawing using symbols to show a circuit
  • Series circuit – circuit with one current path
  • Parallel circuit – circuit with many current paths
  • Electrical symbol – sign used to represent a component
  • Circuit – path through which electricity flows

Differentiation

Use simplified diagrams for slow learners and additional drawing tasks for fast learners.


Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure safety rules are emphasized and symbols are clearly explained before complex diagrams.

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Lesson Note on Schematic Diagrams of Series and Parallel Circuits for JSS 3 (JSS3)
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