Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: understand that a gas obeying pV ∝ T, where T is the thermodynamic temperature, is known as an ideal gas
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the relationship pV ∝ T and its conversion to the ideal‑gas equation pV = nRT.
  • Explain the four key assumptions behind the ideal‑gas model.
  • Apply the ideal‑gas law to calculate pressure, volume, or temperature for a given amount of gas.
  • Identify the limitations of the ideal‑gas approximation and recognise situations where real‑gas corrections are required.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with sample calculations
  • Scientific calculators
  • Online gas‑law simulation (e.g., PhET)
  • Diagram of a piston‑cylinder assembly
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a balloon expanding when placed near a heat source to hook interest. Review students’ prior knowledge of pressure, volume, and temperature definitions. State the success criteria: by the end of the lesson students will be able to write the ideal‑gas equation, list its assumptions, and solve a related problem.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): short quiz on the meanings of p, V, and T.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): derive pV = nRT from the proportionality pV ∝ T and introduce the constant nR.
  3. Simulation activity (10'): students explore an online gas‑law app, adjusting p, V, and T to see the relationship.
  4. Guided worksheet (15'): groups solve the sample calculation (2 mol, 0.050 m³, 300 K) and check answers.
  5. Assumptions & limitations discussion (10'): list the four ideal‑gas assumptions and compare with real‑gas behaviour.
  6. Exit ticket (5'): each student writes one assumption and one condition where the ideal‑gas model fails.
Conclusion:
Recap the ideal‑gas law, its assumptions, and the key limitations discussed. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign homework: complete three additional ideal‑gas problems from the textbook, including one that requires recognising a deviation from ideal behaviour.