Lesson Plan

• Describe the mechanism of convection in liquids and gases.
• Explain how density differences drive convection currents.
• Identify factors that affect the rate of convection.
• Compare convection with conduction and radiation.
• Apply the convection heat‑transfer equation to simple problems.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Diagram of convection currents (digital or printed)
• Small transparent container with water and a heat source (e.g., kettle)
• Thermometer or temperature sensor
• Worksheet with guided questions
• Calculator
• Laptop for simulations (optional)

Begin with a short video of a lava lamp to capture interest and link it to everyday heat movement. Ask students what they already know about heat transfer methods studied previously. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain and calculate convection heat transfer.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick multiple‑choice quiz on conduction, convection, radiation.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define convection, show the diagram, and outline the five‑step process.
3. Demonstration (15'): Heat water in the transparent container, observe rising warm plumes and descending cool water, discuss observations.
4. Guided worksheet (10'): Students identify factors influencing convection rate and label parts of the diagram.
5. Calculation activity (10'): Using Q = h A ΔT, groups solve a simple problem with provided values.
6. Comparison discussion (5'): Contrast natural vs. forced convection and compare with conduction and radiation.
7. Exit ticket (5'): Write one sentence explaining why convection is vital in everyday life.

Recap the key steps of convection and the factors that speed or slow it. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a short homework task: find a real‑world example of convection and describe the heat‑transfer process. Remind students that the next lesson will explore quantitative analysis of heat‑transfer coefficients.