Are switches connected in series or parallel with the devices they control?

In some unusual applications of unusual components, I can think of unusual electric circuits where a switch may be connected in parallel with a device in order to control it.  

But I'm sure this is not what's intended in a question on the high-school level.  

Until you get in a situation with tricky applications in a tricky circuit, your switches will always be connect in series with the devices they control.

i think it is non rem sleep