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Wire MicroSim

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<iframe src="https://dmccreary.github.io/circuits/sims/wire/main.html" width="100%" height="500px" scrolling="no"></iframe>

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Description

This MicroSim provides a basic demonstration of wire drawing for circuit simulations. Wires are the fundamental connectors in electrical circuits, allowing current to flow between components. This simulation serves as a foundation for more complex circuit visualizations.

Key features:

  • Basic wire visualization
  • Foundation for animated wire demonstrations
  • Template for circuit connection drawings

How to Use

  1. Observe the wire representations on the canvas
  2. This MicroSim serves as a template for more complex wire animations
  3. See the Animated Wire MicroSim for electron flow visualization

Lesson Plan

Learning Objectives

After completing this lesson, students will be able to:

  • Understand that wires are conductors that connect circuit components
  • Recognize wire symbols in circuit diagrams
  • Explain the role of wires in completing electrical circuits

Target Audience

  • Grade level: Elementary to middle school (grades 3-6)
  • Prerequisites: None - introductory level

Activities

  1. Exploration Activity: Observe how wires are represented in circuit diagrams as simple lines connecting components.

  2. Guided Investigation: Discuss what wires are made of (copper, aluminum) and why these materials are used (good conductors).

  3. Extension Activity: Compare this static wire to the Animated Wire MicroSim to see how current flows through wires.

Assessment

  • Discussion question: Why do we use metal wires instead of other materials in circuits?
  • Reflection prompt: What happens if a wire breaks in a circuit?
  • Demonstrate understanding by explaining the difference between a wire and an insulator

References