Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Mathematics
Lesson Topic: Forces: motion of a body on a rough surface, connected particles, equilibrium of rigid bodies
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the role of static and kinetic friction on inclined and horizontal surfaces.
  • Apply Newton’s second law to determine acceleration, frictional force, and required applied force for bodies on rough surfaces.
  • Analyse connected‑particle systems to find common acceleration and tension using free‑body diagrams.
  • Solve equilibrium problems for rigid bodies by writing force and moment equations about a chosen pivot.
  • Use key formulas to calculate normal reaction, friction, and tension in typical A‑Level mechanics problems.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard for diagrams and formulas.
  • Printed worksheets with practice problems on friction, connected particles, and equilibrium.
  • Inclined‑plane models or simulation software.
  • String, masses, and pulleys for a tabletop demonstration.
  • Calculator and formula sheet for each student.
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: a block sliding down an inclined plane covered with sandpaper, prompting students to predict the effect of surface roughness. Recall prior learning on Newton’s laws and the concept of forces acting on a body. Explain that today’s success criteria are to correctly identify forces, set up equations, and solve for unknowns in friction, connected‑particle, and equilibrium scenarios.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students solve a short problem on static friction on a horizontal surface and submit answers on sticky notes.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Review coefficients of friction, normal reaction, and equilibrium conditions with projected diagrams.
  3. Guided practice – Motion on a rough incline (15’) – Work through an example step‑by‑step; students complete a worksheet.
  4. Hands‑on activity – Connected particles demo (10’) – Small groups set up a two‑mass pulley system, predict acceleration, then compare with calculations.
  5. Collaborative problem solving – Equilibrium of a rigid beam (15’) – Groups draw free‑body diagrams, choose a pivot, write ΣF=0 and ΣM=0, and solve for reactions.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz via Kahoot or exit ticket with three conceptual questions.
  7. Summary & reflection (5’) – Teacher recaps main formulas; students note one key takeaway.
Conclusion:
Summarise how friction, tension, and moment equilibrium interrelate across the three contexts studied. Students complete an exit ticket stating the equation they would use for a given scenario. Assign homework: a set of mixed A‑Level mechanics problems requiring application of the day’s formulas.