Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: define and use linear momentum as the product of mass and velocity
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe linear momentum as a vector product of mass and velocity.
  • Apply Newton’s second law in its momentum form to calculate net force.
  • Use conservation of linear momentum to solve one‑dimensional collision problems.
  • Distinguish between momentum and force and identify conditions for momentum conservation.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with collision problems
  • Low‑friction carts and track
  • Motion sensor (optional)
  • Calculators
 Introduction:
Imagine two bumper cars colliding on a frictionless track – what determines how they move after impact? Students already know mass, velocity, and Newton’s second law in the form F = ma, which will be reframed in terms of momentum. By the end of the lesson they will be able to calculate momentum, predict post‑collision speeds, and explain why momentum is conserved.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on units and the vector nature of momentum.
  2. Direct instruction (10'): Define p = mv, illustrate direction, and link to F = dp/dt.
  3. Guided practice (15'): Solve a one‑dimensional elastic‑collision example on the board, calculating final velocities.
  4. Collaborative activity (10'): Groups perform the cart collision on the track, record data, and compare with predictions.
  5. Misconception check (5'): Discuss common errors (momentum vs. force, role of external forces).
  6. Exit ticket (5'): Write one correct statement about momentum conservation and one common mistake.
Conclusion:
We recap that momentum p = mv is a conserved vector quantity in isolated systems and that Newton’s second law can be expressed as F = dp/dt. Students hand in their exit tickets, demonstrating understanding of conservation conditions. For homework, they complete a worksheet with two new collision problems and a brief reflection on the difference between momentum and force.