Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Mathematics
Lesson Topic: Forces and equilibrium: vectors, resultants, equilibrium of a particle
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe vector representation and operations in two dimensions.
  • Calculate the resultant of multiple forces using component and parallelogram methods.
  • Apply equilibrium conditions (ΣFₓ=0, ΣF_y=0) to solve for unknown forces and moments on a particle.
  • Construct and interpret free‑body diagrams for simple rigid bodies.
  • Verify solutions by confirming that the resultant force is zero.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed worksheets with vector and equilibrium problems
  • Graph paper and rulers
  • Scientific calculators
  • Set of force‑vector cards (optional hands‑on activity)
  • Whiteboard markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a real‑world image of a tug‑of‑war to spark curiosity about how forces balance. Review that students already know how to add numbers and the concept of direction from previous geometry lessons. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to determine whether a system is in equilibrium and find any missing forces.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick vector‑addition problem on mini‑whiteboards.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Review vector components, magnitude, direction, and addition/subtraction.
  3. Guided example (15'): Work through the three‑force resultant using the component method; students complete a worksheet.
  4. Demonstration (5'): Show the parallelogram rule with physical arrows.
  5. Equilibrium concept (10'): Explain ΣFₓ=0, ΣF_y=0 and moment balance; draw the free‑body diagram of the hinged rod.
  6. Collaborative problem (15'): Groups solve the rod‑tension problem, produce a FBD and calculations.
  7. Check for understanding (5'): Exit‑ticket quiz on identifying equilibrium conditions.
  8. Summary (5'): Recap key steps and address common misconceptions.
Conclusion:
Recap the process of resolving forces, finding resultants, and applying equilibrium equations. Ask students to write one sentence on a sticky note describing how they would verify equilibrium in a new situation (exit ticket). Assign homework: complete a worksheet with two additional equilibrium problems, including free‑body diagrams.