Electrical Technology is one of the new CAPS Elective Occupational Subjects that was introduced in the South African school system. The following are the other subjects that were introduced:
What Is Electrical Technology?
Electrical Technology is a subject that focuses on the understanding of electrical and electrical principles. This subject centres on the following areas of specialisation:
- Electrical Systems
- Electronic Systems
- Digital Systems
What Are The Aims Of The Electrical Technology Subject?
The aim of the Electrical Technology subject is to equip learners with a foundation in electronic and electrical principles. The foundation that this subject offers is aimed to be translated from a knowledge base into practical skills by the end of Grade 12.
Which Skills Will I Gain From Studying Electrical Technology?
Through the integration of theory, practical assessment and tasks, the following skills can be developed:
- Safe work practices
- Good housekeeping
- First Aid practices
- Interpreting circuit diagrams
- Sourcing components
- Constructing circuits
- Installation, testing and troubleshooting of circuits
- Taking measurements
- Workshop practice
Why Is Electrical Technology Important?
We use electricity every minute of our lives. Starting from where we live in our houses, electricity is dominant for lighting, cooking, washing, bathing, entertainment and more. As soon as we leave the house, the use of electricity is also abundant. The traffic lights that we use, street lighting, street signage, elevators fuel pumps all use electrical energy. This is to mention but a few.
Where Does Electrical Power Come From?
Here are some of the sources of electrical power:
- Wind – Wind energy is generated by windmills
- Water – Hydroelectric power is generated by water
- Coal – Burning coal produces electrical energy
- Sun – The sun produces photovoltaic energy also, known as solar energy
Which Topics Will I Cover?
GRADE 10 – ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY TOPICS |
GRADE 11 – ELECTRICAL ENERGY TOPICS |
GRADE12 – ELECTRICAL ENERGY TOPICS |
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What Will I Learn?
Grade 10
TOPIC | CONTENT |
| Workshop rules and procedures |
| Tools and how to use them |
| Draw single-phase circuits with reference to distribution and switching circuits |
| Principles of magnetism and the relevant laws |
| Introduction to electricity |
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| Basic electronic components and how they operate |
| Basic power sources and how they operate |
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| Basic communication principles and modulation |
Grade 11
TOPIC | CONTENT |
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| Measuring instruments and how to use them |
| How electricity is generated |
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| The effect of AC (Alternating Current) on series RLC circuit |
| The Direct Online Starter and its application |
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| Principle of operation of linear power supplies |
| Principle of operation and application of transistor amplifiers |
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Grade 12
TOPIC | CONTENT |
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| Principles of operation, calculations and application |
| Principle of operation, testing and commissioning |
| The effect of AC (Alternating Current) on series and parallel RLC circuits |
| Principle of operation and application of operational amplifiers |
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How Will I Be Assessed?
Assessments will provide you with information on how well you are progressing in this subject. These will include the following:
- Projects
- Oral presentations
- Demonstrations
- Performances
- Tests
- Examinations
- Practical tasks
Programme Of Assessment
Here is the breakdown of your assessment programme:
- School-Based Assessment (SBA) – 25%
- Practical Assessment task (PAT) – 25%
Final Examination – 50%
What Can I Study Further With This Occupational Subject?
On completion of your Matric you have the following options:
- Apprenticeship to become an artisan
- Study at a Technical Vocational Educational Training (TVET) College in a vocational career pathway
- University of Technology
- Academic University
- Start your own business
- Look for employment opportunities
Note: For you to be admitted to Institutions of Higher Learning, you must meet the relevant entry requirements
What Are The Career Opportunities In Electrical Technology?
Here are some of the career opportunities that are in Electrical Technology:
- Electrical Fitter
- Electrical or Electronic Engineer
- Electrical Draughtsperson
- Electrical or Electronic technician
- Electrical or Electronic Technologist
- Digital / Software Engineer
- Electrical Technology Lecturer
- Electronic Mechanic
- Auto-Electrician
- Electrician
- Radio Technician
- Cell Phone Technician
- Communications Technician
- PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming Expert
- Electronics Programming Engineer
- Computer Technician
- Robotics Engineer
- Mechatronics Technician
- Installation Electrician
- Radio Amateur
- Electronic Hobbyist
- Radio Control Enthusiast
- Production Manager
What Are The Types Of Technology?
There are 8 types of technology, and they are the following:
- Information technology
- Biotechnology
- Nuclear technology
- Communication technology
- Electronic technology
- Medical technology
- Mechanical technology
- Materials technology