Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Describe the pattern and direction of magnetic field lines around a bar magnet
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the pattern of magnetic field lines around a bar magnet, both outside and inside the magnet.
  • Explain the direction of magnetic field lines using the arrow convention and the right‑hand rule.
  • Interpret line density as an indicator of field strength and predict field strength at different locations.
  • Sketch accurate field‑line diagrams for typical exam questions.
Materials Needed:
  • Bar magnet (or set of bar magnets)
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Projector with slide of field‑line diagram
  • Compass or magnetic field viewer (optional)
  • Worksheet with diagramming tasks
  • Ruler and pencils
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: hold a bar magnet under a sheet of paper sprinkled with iron filings to reveal invisible field lines. Ask students what they notice about the pattern and relate it to previous knowledge of poles. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe and draw the magnetic field lines correctly, which is the success criteria for today.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students label a blank diagram of a bar magnet with N and S poles.
  2. Teacher demonstration (10’) – Show iron filings or a simulation, discuss emergence and entry of lines, and density near the poles.
  3. Direct instruction (10’) – Explain the arrow convention, right‑hand rule, and the closed‑loop nature using slides.
  4. Guided practice (15’) – In pairs, students sketch field lines on a worksheet, annotate direction and density; teacher circulates for support.
  5. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz where students write one sentence describing line direction at a given point.
  6. Review & consolidation (5’) – Whole‑class sharing of sketches and correction of misconceptions.
Conclusion:
Summarise that magnetic field lines always form closed loops, emerging from the north pole and entering the south pole, with density indicating strength. Remind students to use the right‑hand rule for orientation. For the exit ticket, ask them to sketch a bar magnet’s field lines and label the direction at two points. Homework: complete a worksheet drawing field lines for a bar magnet placed near a piece of iron.