Electricity Worksheet - GCSE - Intermediate
Electricity worksheet for Key Stage 4 / GCSE (Ages 14-16). Intermediate level science practice, aligned to the UK National Curriculum. Print-ready with answer key included.
Exploring Electricity in Science
Key Stage 4 / GCSE (Ages 14-16) - Intermediate Level
Instructions: This worksheet will guide you through various aspects of electricity, including calculations, circuit analysis, and understanding electrical components. Follow the instructions for each activity to enhance your understanding of electricity.
Understanding Electrical Circuits
Study the circuit diagram provided and answer the questions below. Pay attention to the components and their connections.
1. Identify the type of circuit shown (series or parallel).
2. Name the components labelled A, B, and C.
3. Explain the function of component B.
Ohm's Law Calculations
Use Ohm's Law (V = IR) to solve the following problems. Show all your working clearly.
1. If the current through a resistor is 2 A and the resistance is 5 Ω, what is the voltage across it?
2. A circuit has a voltage of 12 V and a resistance of 6 Ω. Calculate the current flowing through the circuit.
3. Determine the resistance if a current of 3 A flows through a component with a voltage of 9 V.
Power and Energy in Circuits
Calculate the power and energy in the following scenarios using P = IV and E = VIt. Show your calculations clearly.
1. A device operates with a current of 4 A and a voltage of 10 V. Calculate the power consumed.
2. How much energy is used by a 60 W bulb in 2 hours?
3. If a heater uses 2400 J of energy in 10 seconds, what is the power rating of the heater?
Series and Parallel Circuits
Compare the characteristics of series and parallel circuits. Use the table to summarise key differences.
| Characteristic | Series Circuit | Parallel Circuit |
| Current | Same through all components | Different in each branch |
| Voltage | Divided among components | Same across all branches |
Analysing I-V Characteristics
Examine the I-V characteristics of different components. Use the graph to answer the questions.
1. Describe the I-V characteristic of a resistor.
2. How does the I-V curve of a diode differ from that of a resistor?
3. What happens to the current when the voltage is increased in a filament lamp?
Static Electricity Concepts
Answer the following questions about static electricity. Consider the causes and effects of static charges.
1. What causes static electricity?
2. Describe a real-world application of static electricity.
3. Explain how static electricity can be a hazard in certain situations.
Extended Writing: The National Grid
Write an essay discussing the importance of the National Grid. Include its role in electricity distribution and its impact on society.
Discuss the importance of the National Grid in electricity distribution and its impact on society. Consider both advantages and challenges. [10 marks]
Electricity and Safety
Identify safety measures related to electricity. Explain why each measure is important.
1. Why is it important to use fuses in electrical circuits?
2. Describe the function of the earth wire in a plug.
3. Explain how circuit breakers enhance electrical safety.
Activity 1: Series ; Resistor, Battery, Switch ; Allows current to flow
Activity 2: 10 V ; 2 A ; 3 Ω
Activity 3: 40 W ; 432,000 J ; 240 W
Activity 4: Pre-filled
Activity 5: Linear relationship ; Non-linear, allows current in one direction ; Increases, then levels off
Activity 6: Friction ; Photocopiers ; Sparks can cause fires
Activity 7: [Essay based on student's response]
Activity 8: Prevents overload ; Provides a path for fault current ; Automatically cuts off power
📚 Great books for Science
Handpicked books to support learning at home · Amazon affiliate links

CGP KS2 Science Study Book
Complete KS2 science - biology, chemistry and physics
Usually ships in 24hrs

Horrible Science Collection
Engaging science books that make learning fun
Usually ships in 24hrs

KS3 Science Complete Revision
CGP all-in-one revision for secondary science
Usually ships in 24hrs

Usborne Science Encyclopedia
Illustrated reference covering all areas of science
Usually ships in 24hrs