| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Know that electrical energy is transferred to heat energy and other forms of energy in the resistor, or other circuit components, and then into the surroundings |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe how electrical energy is converted to heat and other forms in a resistor.
- Calculate power dissipated in a resistor using P = VI, P = I²R, and P = V²/R.
- Determine the total energy transferred to the surroundings over a given time.
- Analyse how current, resistance, and time affect heat production.
- Apply the resistance formula R = ρ L⁄A to real‑world components.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- PowerPoint/Google Slides presentation with circuit diagrams
- Resistor kits or simulation software (e.g., PhET Circuit Builder)
- Worksheets with practice problems
- Scientific calculators
- Whiteboard and markers
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Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: connect a resistor to a battery and feel the warmth after a few seconds. Ask students what they notice and link it to prior learning about current and voltage. Explain that today they will explore how electrical energy is transformed into heat and other forms, and how to quantify that conversion. Success will be measured by correctly calculating power and energy in given circuits.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5') – Students answer a short question on energy forms in circuits on a sticky note.
- Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain energy conversion in resistors, introduce power formulas, and derive E = Pt.
- Guided practice (12') – Work through the example of a 10 Ω resistor (2 A, 5 min) on the board; students complete a worksheet.
- Simulation activity (10') – In pairs, use PhET Circuit Builder to vary current and resistance, recording power and heat changes.
- Concept check (8') – Quick Kahoot quiz on selecting the appropriate power formula and interpreting results.
- Extension problem (5') – Discuss factors influencing heat production and relate to real devices (heater, filament lamp).
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Conclusion:
Summarise that electrical energy becomes heat (and sometimes light) in resistors, and that power can be calculated with three equivalent formulas while total energy equals power times time. Have students write one key takeaway on an exit ticket. Assign homework: complete additional practice questions on power, energy, and resistance calculations.
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