| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Know that communication with artificial satellites is mainly by microwaves: (a) some satellite phones use low orbit artificial satellites (b) some satellite phones and direct broadcast satellite television use geostationary satellites |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the position of microwaves in the electromagnetic spectrum and their typical frequency/wavelength ranges.
- Explain why microwaves are suitable for satellite communication (low atmospheric attenuation, practical antenna size, high data‑rate).
- Compare low‑orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO) satellite systems in terms of altitude, latency, coverage and typical applications.
- Evaluate how specific microwave bands are selected for satellite phone services versus direct‑broadcast TV.
|
Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Slide deck with spectrum diagram and satellite schematics
- Handout containing LEO vs GEO comparison table
- Microwave frequency band chart
- Animation or model of satellite orbits
- Worksheets for group activity
|
Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip of a satellite‑phone call and a DBS TV broadcast to capture interest. Ask students what part of the electromagnetic spectrum enables these services and link it to prior knowledge of radio waves. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify why microwaves are used and contrast LEO and GEO satellite systems.
|
Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Quick matching worksheet – link frequency ranges to parts of the spectrum.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Position of microwaves in the spectrum and reasons for their use in satellite links (slides).
- Interactive demonstration (8'): Animation of LEO vs GEO orbits; discuss latency and coverage.
- Group activity (12'): Using the handout, complete a Venn diagram comparing LEO and GEO characteristics.
- Guided practice (8'): Solve sample problems calculating signal latency for LEO and GEO frequencies.
- Check for understanding (5'): Exit‑ticket – one sentence answer to “Why are microwaves preferred for satellite communication?”
|
Conclusion:
Summarise that microwaves provide low‑loss transmission and practical antenna sizes, with LEO offering low latency and GEO providing wide coverage. Collect the exit tickets, address any lingering misconceptions, and assign homework to research a real satellite service and identify its microwave band.
|