8th Grade Science
Sample Assessment Items S8P5b.
If Bulb B burns out, what will happen to Bulb A? [DOK 2]
A. It will get brighter.
B. It will get dimmer.
C. It will stop working.
D. It will stay the same.
Explanation of Correct Answer from Study/Resource Guide: The correct answer is choice (C)
It will stop working. This is a series circuit, and in a series circuit, if one of the bulbs stops
working, all the bulbs stop working. Choices (A) and (D) are incorrect for a series circuit. If it
were a parallel circuit, Bulb A would not go out but would stay lit and might get brighter
depending on the type of bulb, but it is a series circuit, not a parallel circuit. Choice (B) is
incorrect; the bulb would stop working, not just get dimmer, since the circuit is a series circuit.
Identify the path of the transfer of energy in the diagram to the
right.
What is the source of energy in the diagram to the right?
Compare and contrast a series circuit to parallel circuit. Include an example of each type of
circuit and a benefit or disadvantage of each type of circuit.
8th Grade Science
Sample Assessment Items S8P5b.
2
3
1
Look at the diagrams above. In which situation will the light bulb not light up? Explain why.
Which diagram above is a parallel circuit? Explain why.
In diagram 2 above, what will happen to the other light bulbs if one light is pulled out? Explain
why.
Look at diagrams 1 and 2 above. Which of the two diagrams will most likely have dimmer
(weaker) shining lights? Explain why.
What type of circuits would be used to wire a house or building? Why?
In order to turn on the light in the diagram to the right, a piece of
wire needs to be connected from which two points?
4
8th Grade Science
Sample Assessment Items S8P5b.
What types of objects (other than wire) could be used to complete
the circuit in the diagram to the right?
Both light bulbs are lit in the circuit to the right. In order to
turn off both lights, where must a switch be installed in the circuit?
In the diagram to the right, what essential part of an electric circuit is
missing at position X?