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Electrician's Math

Activity

Electrician's Math

Grade Levels

9th Grade

Course, Subject

Algebra I, Mathematics
Related Academic Standards
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Author

Anthony George, Attica Senior High School

Source

George, Anthony. “Electrician's Math.” In Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Resource Guide with Core Curriculum. New York State Department of Education, 197.

Description

Objective:

Students will use formulas to calculate the number of amperes a typical house could use.

Activity:

  • Students, working in groups or as a class, determine the typical electrical devices found in a home. (Don't forget the lights!)
  • Students determine the wattage rating of each device. Students check the nameplates of appliances, contact local appliance stores, or use the Internet to gather the specific information.
  • Students use the formula, Wattage = Voltage X Ampere, to calculate the amount of current for each appliance.
  • The information is to be included in a spreadsheet. Students calculate the total number of amperes.
  • Students discuss the concerns of an electrician (e.g., regarding whether or not all devices would be used simultaneously).
  • Discuss the most efficient way (mathematically) to reduce use of electricity.

Duration

1 Week

Assessment

Student calculation of the amperage usage in a sample house is evaluated on the basis of specified rubric.

Keywords

volts, watts, electicity, ampheres

Materials/Resources

  • Computer
  • Spreadsheet program (e.g., Excel)
  • Calculator

Comments/Modifications

Discuss what would change if the voltage were increased from 110v to 220v, as the case is in Europe.
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