Lesson Plan

• Describe the difference between speed (scalar) and velocity (vector).
• Explain how displacement and time determine average velocity.
• Apply the formula v = Δs/Δt to calculate velocity with its direction.
• Interpret vector notation and represent velocity on a diagram.
• Solve simple problems that require converting speed statements to velocity statements.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed worksheets with displacement problems
• Rulers / scale bars for drawing vectors
• Calculators
• Student notebooks
• Handout of speed‑vs‑velocity comparison table

Begin by asking students how they would describe a car travelling north at 20 m s⁻¹ versus a car travelling 20 m s⁻¹ in any direction. Link this to their existing knowledge of speed and highlight the missing directional component. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to define velocity, distinguish it from speed, and calculate average velocity with direction.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick written quiz on speed vs. direction to activate prior knowledge.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define velocity, introduce vector notation (v⃗), and present the formula v = Δs/Δt.
3. Guided example (10'): Work through a car moving north 20 m s⁻¹, calculate displacement and state the velocity.
4. Pair activity (15'): Students complete a worksheet calculating average velocity for several scenarios, recording both magnitude and direction.
5. Class discussion (5'): Review answers, clarify common misconceptions about direction.
6. Visualisation (5'): Draw displacement vectors on the board, label magnitude and direction.
7. Exit ticket (5'): Each student writes a concise definition of velocity and provides one real‑world example.

Summarise that velocity combines speed with a specific direction and that the formula uses displacement over time. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign homework: complete the additional set of velocity problems in the textbook (Chapter 4, questions 1‑5).