Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: recall and use E = 21mω2x02 for the total energy of a system undergoing simple harmonic motion
Learning Objective/s:
  • Recall the expression for total mechanical energy in SHM and its derivation.
  • Explain how kinetic and potential energy vary through an SHM cycle while total energy remains constant.
  • Apply E = ½ m ω² x₀² to calculate energy for given mass‑spring systems.
  • Identify common errors when using the energy formula.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with derivation and practice questions
  • Mass‑spring apparatus (spring, set of masses, ruler)
  • Calculators
  • Laptop with SHM simulation software (optional)
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a mass‑spring oscillating on a table, asking students what they observe about the motion. Link this to their prior study of Hooke’s law and kinetic/potential energy. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to derive and use the total energy formula for simple harmonic motion and check their answers against a clear success criterion.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5 min): short recall question on kinetic vs potential energy in SHM, written on the board.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10 min): derive E = ½ m ω² x₀², linking k = m ω² and using the provided equations.
  3. Guided example (10 min): work through the 0.25 kg spring problem, emphasizing unit conversion and substitution.
  4. Interactive simulation (8 min): pairs explore a PhET SHM simulation, recording kinetic, potential, and total energy at three positions.
  5. Practice worksheet (12 min): individual completion of three practice questions with teacher feedback.
  6. Check for understanding (5 min): exit‑ticket where each student writes the energy formula and one common mistake to avoid.
Conclusion:
Summarise that the total mechanical energy in SHM stays constant and is given by ½ m ω² x₀², regardless of the instant considered. Ask a few students to share their exit‑ticket responses to reinforce key points. Assign homework to solve two additional SHM energy problems from the textbook.