Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: add and subtract coplanar vectors
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the difference between scalars and vectors and define coplanar vectors.
  • Apply the tip‑to‑tail, parallelogram, and component methods to add coplanar vectors.
  • Apply the component method to subtract coplanar vectors.
  • Calculate the magnitude and direction of resultant vectors using trigonometric formulas.
  • Interpret vector addition/subtraction results in real‑world contexts such as forces.
Materials Needed:
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Projector with vector diagram slides
  • Graph paper and rulers
  • Scientific calculators
  • Worksheet with practice problems
  • Set of printable vector arrows for hands‑on activity
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: show two arrows on the board and ask students what happens when you combine them. Recall that scalars have only magnitude while vectors have magnitude and direction, linking to previous work on displacement. Explain that today they will master adding and subtracting coplanar vectors using graphical and component methods, and they will know how to check their results.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Students complete a short quiz identifying scalars vs. vectors on the worksheet.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Review definitions and demonstrate tip‑to‑tail and parallelogram methods with projector.
  3. Guided practice (15') – Work through the worked example together, filling in component calculations.
  4. Hands‑on activity (15') – In pairs, use vector arrows on graph paper to add and subtract given vectors and record results.
  5. Check for understanding (5') – Exit ticket: write the formula for resultant magnitude and note how to determine the correct quadrant.
  6. Summary & homework (5') – Recap key steps and assign extra practice problems on adding and subtracting forces.
Conclusion:
Summarise that vectors can be combined graphically or algebraically and that consistent sign conventions are essential. Ask students to write one real‑world example where vector addition is useful as an exit ticket. For homework, complete the worksheet problems on adding and subtracting forces.