Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: derive, from the definitions of velocity and acceleration, equations that represent uniformly accelerated motion in a straight line
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the definitions of displacement, velocity, and acceleration and their mathematical relationships.
  • Derive the four kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion from first principles.
  • Apply the appropriate kinematic equation to solve problems involving constant acceleration.
  • Analyse common pitfalls such as sign errors and misuse of the equations.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slide deck showing step‑by‑step derivations
  • Worksheet with practice problems
  • Graphing calculator or physics simulation software
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick visual of a car accelerating to capture interest, then ask students to recall the definitions of velocity and acceleration from previous lessons. Highlight that today they will see how these definitions lead directly to the familiar kinematic equations. Success will be measured by their ability to derive and correctly choose an equation for a given problem.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students list the definitions of s, v, a and note any calculus connections.
  2. Teacher‑led derivation of v = u + at (10'): Full walk‑through on board, students copy key steps.
  3. Guided derivation of s = ut + ½at² (10'): Pairs complete missing integration steps on worksheet.
  4. Collaborative derivation of v² = u² + 2as and s = (u+v)/2·t (10'): Whole‑class discussion, students justify eliminating time.
  5. Practice questions (15'): Students solve three quick‑check problems, teacher provides immediate feedback.
  6. Exit ticket (5'): Write one kinematic equation and describe a real‑world scenario where it is applicable.
Conclusion:
Recap the logical flow from definitions to each of the four equations, emphasizing the constant‑acceleration condition. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a short homework set of mixed‑type problems to reinforce selection of the correct equation.