| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Explain the benefits of digital signalling including increased rate of transmission of data and increased range due to accurate signal regeneration |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe how digital signalling increases data transmission rates.
- Explain why digital signals can be regenerated accurately, extending transmission range.
- Compare analogue and digital signalling in terms of noise, data rate, and range.
- Apply the Shannon‑Hartley theorem and M‑ary modulation concepts to evaluate system performance.
- Identify real‑world examples that illustrate the benefits of digital signalling.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Slides with diagrams of analogue vs digital signals
- Handout summarising key formulas (Shannon‑Hartley, R = log₂ M × fₛ)
- Modulation demonstration software or online simulator
- Worksheet with comparison table and practice questions
- Whiteboard markers
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Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip showing a blurry analogue TV picture versus a crisp digital broadcast to hook students. Ask learners what they think allows digital TV to look sharper and reach farther. Link this to prior learning about waves and signal noise. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain how digital signalling boosts data rates and range.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Students write on a sticky note one difference they know between analogue and digital signals.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Present discrete voltage levels, Shannon‑Hartley theorem, M‑ary modulation, and regeneration at repeaters.
- Guided analysis (10'): Calculate a sample data rate using R = log₂ M × fₛ and discuss the effect of increasing M.
- Comparison activity (10'): Pairs complete a comparison table (analogue vs digital) using the handout; teacher checks misconceptions.
- Real‑world examples (10'): Demonstrate digital modulation (e.g., QAM) with simulation software; discuss fibre‑optic, digital TV, and mobile networks.
- Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz (Kahoot or exit ticket) with three questions on the benefits of digital signalling.
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Conclusion:
Summarise that digital signalling achieves higher data rates by packing more bits per symbol and maintains long‑range transmission through accurate regeneration at repeaters. Ask students to write one real‑world application they could investigate for homework. Assign a brief research task to find a modern communication system that relies on digital modulation and report its data rate and range.
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