Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Know that a deceleration is a negative acceleration and use this in calculations
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the concept of deceleration as negative acceleration.
  • Explain how sign conventions affect kinematic calculations.
  • Apply the formula a = Δv/Δt to determine deceleration in given scenarios.
  • Solve worked examples involving braking cars and objects thrown upwards.
  • Identify common mistakes related to sign usage in deceleration problems.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with examples and practice questions
  • Scientific calculators
  • Diagram of a braking car (handout)
  • Stopwatch (for demonstration)
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a toy car coming to a stop and ask students what is happening to its speed. Review the previously learned acceleration formula a = Δv/Δt. State that by the end of the lesson they will correctly identify and calculate deceleration using consistent sign conventions.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – short quiz on acceleration signs and direction.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – define deceleration, illustrate negative sign, show formula.
  3. Guided example (12') – work through the car‑braking problem; students fill in each step.
  4. Pair activity (10') – solve the object‑thrown‑upwards example on the worksheet.
  5. Practice questions (10') – groups attempt the four practice items; teacher circulates.
  6. Mistake check (5') – discuss common errors and correct sign usage.
  7. Summary & exit ticket (3') – each student writes one correct statement about deceleration and one common mistake.
Conclusion:
Recap that deceleration is simply acceleration with a negative sign and that consistent direction choices are essential for accurate calculations. Collect exit tickets and assign homework: complete an additional worksheet with three new deceleration problems to reinforce the skill.