Appliances can be compared and sorted into different groups. Children may think that an appliance powered by batteries is not an electrical appliance as it is not 'plugged in' for use. Ensure opportunities for children to consider a range of appliances and how they are powered by electricity to perform a function.
An electric appliance is a device that uses electricity to perform a function. The first electrical appliances, such as the iron, kettle and light bulb, were invented in the 1800s. Some electrical appliances use batteries and some are powered by mains electricity. Appliances can be compared and sorted into different groups.
Mains electricity is when items are plugged into electrical wall sockets. These normally need a higher amount of energy as batteries would quickly run out if they were used. Electricity is often used with larger appliances that normally stay in one place. Battery operated devices tend to be smaller and more portable.
Something things that use batteries and electricity have in common, however, is that there are always risks when using these devices, and they have to be used safely. Our Staying Safe with Electricity Poster would be a great resource to be hung up in your class to remind children of this.
The power of an appliance is the amount of energy (J) that it transfers per second. In other words, power is the rate of energy transfer. Energy is transferred in everyday appliances, including electronic appliances. For example kettles, microwaves and hairdryers can all convert electrical energy into other forms of energy, which we can then use.
Electricity is often used with larger appliances that normally stay in one place. Battery operated devices tend to be smaller and more portable. It means it is much more possible to move them if they need to. However, batteries do run out of power eventually. This means they will need to be replaced or recharged when it is needed.