Some questions about electricity are best answered by simple research. Utilize web tools or science textbooks to learn the basics. Definitions of words such as conductor, current, insulator and resistance are easily found. Utilize a source that is age-appropriate for the best understanding of these terms. Electricity is observable as lighting during a thunderstorm or a spark of static electricity. Observe lighting from the safety of indoors. Many photos and videos of lighting exist for additional study. Sparks from static electricity can be observed best in a darkened area. Rub two wool blankets together and watch for sparks when you pull them apart.
Electric experiments should be monitored closely to ensure safety measures are followed. Static electricity can be created and observed by rubbing balloons with a wool cloth or shuffling across a carpet and touching something metal. Demonstrate the effect of static electricity on water by rubbing a plastic rod with wool and holding it close to a stream of water from the water faucet. Build a simple electrical circuit to power a light bulb to illustrate circuits and current. Electricity needs a complete circuit to produce an effect. Experiment with a power source and a variety of substances to determine what types of matter conduct electricity the best. Some substances such as metal are conductors while others substances such as rubber are insulators. Ensure the power source is not strong enough to cause injury when discharged. Electricity can be created from a variety of sources ranging from potatoes to batteries. Experiment with a variety of power sources to determine which is strongest.
Magnets can be a fun way to demonstrate one of the properties of electricity. Electricity creates a magnetic field as it flows through metal. Sprinkle iron filings near a magnet to illustrate a magnetic field. The iron filings will show the lines of force that are not visible to the naked eye. A magnetic field can be demonstrated on a global scale by observing a compass. The compass always points to magnetic north. A magneto generates electricity through magnetism. Magnetos are commonly used in lawn mowers, chainsaws and some small planes to provide electricity for ignition.