Lesson Plan

• Describe the difference between systematic and random errors and give real‑world examples.
• Explain how zero errors shift measurements and demonstrate the correction method.
• Calculate the mean, standard deviation and standard uncertainty for a set of data.
• Combine systematic and random uncertainties using quadrature to obtain a total uncertainty.
• Interpret combined uncertainty to assess the accuracy and precision of a result.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Worksheet on error analysis
• Vernier caliper (or ruler) with a known zero error
• Stop‑watch
• Calculator
• Lab data sheet for the pendulum experiment
• Computer with spreadsheet software (optional)

Start with a quick demonstration: ask students to measure the length of a desk using a ruler and note the spread of results. Recall the previous lesson on significant figures and the importance of accurate measurement. Students will identify error types, correct zero errors, and quantify uncertainties by the end of the lesson.

1. Do‑Now (5'): Record a single measurement of the desk length; discuss why values differ.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define systematic vs. random errors, introduce zero error, show caliper diagram.
3. Guided practice (15'): Work through the vernier‑caliper zero‑error correction; students calculate a corrected length.
4. Group activity – Pendulum timing (20'): Students time 20 oscillations (5 trials), record data, compute mean, standard deviation, and standard uncertainty; identify the stop‑watch zero error as a systematic component.
5. Uncertainty propagation (10'): Demonstrate combining systematic and random uncertainties using quadrature on the pendulum results.
6. Check for understanding (5'): Exit‑ticket quiz with two short questions on error identification and uncertainty calculation.

Summarise how systematic errors shift all measurements and must be corrected, while random errors cause scatter and are reduced by repeated trials. Students submit their exit tickets and receive a brief homework task: complete a worksheet applying error‑analysis techniques to a new experiment (e.g., measuring the resistance of a resistor).