Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Kinetic and Gravitational Potential Energy
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the concepts of kinetic energy (KE) and gravitational potential energy (GPE) and their formulas.
  • Explain the principle of mechanical energy conservation in the absence of non‑conservative forces.
  • Apply the KE = ½ mv² and GPE = mgh equations to solve quantitative problems.
  • Derive the kinetic energy expression from the work‑energy theorem.
  • Analyse real‑world scenarios (e.g., roller coasters, falling objects) using energy concepts.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides with formula slides and example animations
  • Printed worksheet with practice problems
  • Small masses and metre ruler for quick hands‑on demo
  • Calculator for each student
  • Exit‑ticket slips
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video of a roller coaster highlighting peaks and valleys to spark curiosity. Ask students to recall where they have seen “energy” in everyday life and link it to prior work on work‑energy theorem. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to calculate and compare KE and GPE and justify energy conservation in simple systems.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Quick mental‑quiz on definitions of KE and GPE (paper or digital).
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Derive KE = ½ mv² from work‑energy theorem; introduce GPE = mgh.
  3. Guided practice (12'): Solve Example 1 (crate lifted) and Example 2 (ball thrown) together, emphasizing units and sign conventions.
  4. Hands‑on demo (8'): Use masses and a height table to measure GPE, then let masses fall to observe speed and calculate KE.
  5. Collaborative activity (10'): Groups work on the three “Example Problems” from the notes, recording answers on worksheet.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Whole‑class polling using clickers or show of hands on key concepts.
  7. Reflection (5'): Students write one sentence on how mechanical energy is conserved in the demo.
Conclusion:
Recap the formulas and the conservation principle, highlighting common mistakes observed during the activity. Ask students to complete an exit ticket: “State the KE of a 2 kg object moving at 3 m s⁻¹ and the GPE if it is 4 m above the ground.” Assign homework to finish the “Practice Questions” from the source notes and bring any uncertainties to the next class.