Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Define impulse as force × time for which force acts; recall and use the equation impulse = F Δt = Δ(m v)
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe impulse as the product of force and the time interval during which it acts.
  • Explain the relationship between impulse and change in linear momentum (impulse‑momentum theorem).
  • Apply the impulse equation to solve problems involving collisions and momentum changes.
  • Interpret impulse vectors and units in physical contexts.
  • Analyze how impulse relates to Newton’s third law in collisions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Physics textbook or handout on impulse‑momentum
  • Worksheets with example problems
  • Motion sensors or dynamics cart (optional demo)
  • Graphing calculator or computer with simulation software
  • Whiteboard markers and erasers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: drop a ball onto a foam pad and ask students what changes when the ball bounces quickly versus slowly. Connect this to prior knowledge of force and momentum, reminding them that force applied over time produces an effect. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to define impulse, relate it to momentum change, and solve related problems.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Students calculate impulse for a given force‑time pair and share answers.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define impulse, present the integral form, link to Δp, discuss units and vector nature with slides.
  3. Guided example (12') – Work through the ball‑wall collision problem step‑by‑step, emphasizing sign conventions.
  4. Interactive simulation (10') – Use a computer model to vary force and time, observe resulting velocity change; students record data.
  5. Collaborative worksheet (15') – Pairs solve two problems (constant mass and variable force); teacher circulates for misconceptions.
  6. Check for understanding (5') – Quick exit quiz (Kahoot or paper) with three conceptual questions on impulse‑momentum.
  7. Summary discussion (3') – Review key equations and real‑world applications.
Conclusion:
Summarize that impulse equals the change in momentum and depends on both force magnitude and duration. Ask students to write one real‑life example of impulse on an exit ticket. Assign homework: complete a set of problems converting forces and times into impulses and predicting motion outcomes.