| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Know that microscopic particles may be moved by collisions with light fast-moving molecules and correctly use the terms atoms or molecules as distinct from microscopic particles |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe how collisions with fast‑moving molecules set stationary microscopic particles into motion.
- Distinguish between atoms, molecules and the broader term microscopic particles.
- Explain the effect of temperature on particle motion and collision frequency.
- Apply the elastic‑collision formula to predict the speed of a target particle after impact.
- Interpret Brownian motion as a real‑world example of particle collisions.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Slide deck with diagrams of collisions and Brownian motion
- Printed worksheet with terminology table and sample questions
- Tray of water with pollen grains (microscope optional) for demonstration
- Calculator for quick kinetic‑energy calculations
- Sticky notes for exit ticket
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Introduction:
Begin with a short video of pollen grains jittering under a microscope to spark curiosity. Ask students what might cause the visible motion and link it to prior knowledge of temperature and kinetic energy. Explain that today they will explore how invisible collisions transfer energy and clarify the language of atoms, molecules and microscopic particles. Success will be measured by their ability to describe these processes and use the correct terminology.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Quick recall quiz on the particle model and temperature effects; teacher checks answers.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain collisions, kinetic‑energy transfer, introduce the elastic‑collision equations, and review terminology with a slide table.
- Demonstration (8'): Show a Brownian‑motion video or microscope demo; discuss observations and link to molecular collisions.
- Guided practice (12'): Pairs complete worksheet: label atoms, molecules, microscopic particles and calculate the target speed using the simplified formula.
- Concept check (5'): Whole‑class click‑question on how increasing temperature affects collision frequency and energy.
- Application (10'): Students answer a sample exam question, focusing on explaining dust‑particle motion and using precise terminology.
- Review & summary (5'): Teacher recaps key points using the checklist.
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Conclusion:
Summarise that microscopic particles move because energy is transferred in collisions and that temperature controls the speed of those collisions. Re‑emphasise the precise meanings of atom, molecule and microscopic particle. For the exit ticket, each student writes one sentence distinguishing the three terms. Homework: finish the remaining worksheet questions and prepare a short explanation of Brownian motion for the next lesson.
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