Lesson Plan

• Define capacitance and express it as the ratio Q/V.
• Calculate the capacitance of a parallel‑plate capacitor using its geometry and dielectric constant.
• Determine equivalent capacitance for series and parallel combinations of capacitors.
• Compute the energy stored in a charged capacitor using the appropriate formula.
• Apply these concepts to solve typical A‑Level problems involving charge, voltage and energy.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard for slides/diagrams
• Printed worksheet with example problems
• Assortment of physical capacitors (various types) and a 12 V battery for demonstration
• Multimeter to measure voltage and capacitance
• Calculator or computer with simulation software (e.g., PhET Capacitor Lab)
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with a quick demonstration: charge a small capacitor and ask students what determines how much charge it can hold. Recall prior learning on electric charge and potential difference, linking to the formula Q = CV. Explain that today they will explore how geometry and materials define capacitance and how to combine capacitors in circuits. Success will be measured by correctly solving series/parallel problems and calculating stored energy.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Prompt: “If two identical plates are moved farther apart, what happens to the charge for a fixed voltage?” Collect responses.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define capacitance, units, and derive C = εA/d with diagram.
3. Guided practice (12') – Calculate a parallel‑plate capacitor’s capacitance from given dimensions; students work in pairs on a worksheet.
4. Demonstration (8') – Show series and parallel capacitor networks with real components; measure equivalent capacitance using a multimeter.
5. Problem solving (15') – Solve the A‑Level example (two capacitors in series on 12 V) step‑by‑step in groups.
6. Check for understanding (5') – Quick exit‑ticket quiz with three conceptual questions on series/parallel rules and energy formula.
7. Summary & reflection (5') – Teacher revisits key points; students write one takeaway on sticky notes.

Summarise that capacitance depends on plate area, separation, and dielectric, and that series and parallel rules allow us to predict circuit behaviour. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign homework: calculate the equivalent capacitance and stored energy for a mixed network of three capacitors. Remind students to review the energy‑voltage relationship for the next lesson on electric fields.