Inclusive SEND science lesson on Series and Parallel Circuits for Key Stage 4 – one lesson with three pathways for PMLD, SLD / MLD and dyslexic GCSE learners. 45 slides at 28 pt, answers on click, worksheets with answers and 19 pages of print-ready cards. Why do all the fairy lights go out? An inclusive KS4 lesson on series and parallel circuits for special schools and mixed-ability classes.

Everyone studies the same National Curriculum topic at the right level, so the whole class learns together.

Three pathways in one lesson

• Explore (PMLD / sensory learners): a sensory story: hold hands in a loop, lights on and lights off. Includes an Engagement Model observation record for the adult to complete.
• Build (SLD / MLD, low reading age, EAL): match pictures to words, sort series and parallel circuits and predict what happens when one lamp breaks – by sticking, pointing, signing or writing.
• Explain (GCSE, dyslexia-friendly): use the series and parallel rules, calculate total resistance and answer an exam question.

What’s included

• 45-slide editable PowerPoint – every word at least 28 pt, cream background, no italics, one idea per slide, a picture on every teaching slide and answers revealed one click at a time
• Visual timetable with Now / Next, feelings check-in, sensory starter, ‘I can’ objectives, key words with pictures, show-me checks, picture hinge question, exam question with mark scheme and plenary
• Multi-sensory practical: build series and parallel circuits and unscrew one lamp
• 6-page worksheet pack (Word + PDF) in 14 pt with 1.5 line spacing: teacher guide, sensory story and engagement record, Build tasks, Explain tasks, cut-out cards and full answers
• 19-page Printable Cards and Resources pack (PDF) with cut lines: key-word picture cards, word cards, picture cards, matching cards, yes / not sure / no cards, A–D, number and answer cards, visual timetable cards, Now and Next board, feelings board, sorting mat, choice board and A4 posters
• Teaching-team notes: adult roles, resources, safety, misconceptions and Ofsted SEND links

Key words: series, parallel, branch, junction, share, total, loop, fairy lights

Curriculum

• National Curriculum Key Stage 4 Science (Physics): electric circuits: current, potential difference and resistance
• AQA GCSE Physics 8463 / Combined Science Trilogy 8464 – 4.2.2 Series and parallel circuits

Ideal for special schools, SEND resource bases, intervention groups, alternative provision and mainstream classes that need adaptive teaching.

Keywords: SEND science, special needs science lesson, PMLD sensory story, SLD, MLD, dyslexia friendly, adaptive teaching, inclusive science, KS4 physics, GCSE physics, series circuits, parallel circuits, current, resistance, visual timetable, communication cards, Engagement Model