Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: analyse and interpret graphical representations of the variations of displacement, velocity and acceleration for simple harmonic motion
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the sinusoidal form of displacement, velocity and acceleration in SHM.
  • Explain the phase relationships between x(t), v(t) and a(t) and how they appear on graphs.
  • Calculate amplitude, angular frequency and period from any of the three graphs.
  • Interpret sample graphs to determine maximum speed and maximum acceleration.
  • Identify and correct common misconceptions about amplitude, phase and acceleration direction.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed worksheets with SHM graphs
  • Graph‑plotting software (e.g., Desmos) or scientific calculator
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Ruler and graph paper for hand‑sketching
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: a mass‑spring oscillator set into motion while a sensor displays a live sinusoidal trace. Ask students what they notice about the shape of the trace and how it might relate to speed and force. Link this to prior work on sinusoidal functions and the definition of simple harmonic motion. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to read any SHM graph and extract key quantities.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students sketch a sine wave from memory and label peaks and zero crossings; collect responses to gauge familiarity.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Review SHM equations, derive velocity and acceleration by differentiation, and show overlaid graphs on the projector.
  3. Guided analysis (15'): Work through the “Interpreting Sample Graphs” checklist using a printed worksheet; identify period, amplitude, and phase relationships.
  4. Collaborative activity (10'): In pairs, use Desmos to plot x(t)=A cos(ωt) and automatically generate v(t) and a(t); compare with textbook diagrams.
  5. Misconception check (5'): Quick poll on statements about amplitude vs. maximum speed; discuss correct reasoning.
  6. Exit ticket (5'): Students write one example of how to determine ω from a given velocity graph.
Conclusion:
Summarise how the three graphs share the same period but differ in amplitude and phase, reinforcing the link between calculus and graphical features. Students complete an exit ticket summarising one method to find ω from a graph. Assign homework: complete the practice questions on calculating maximum speed and acceleration from given displacement graphs.