| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Determine, qualitatively, from given data or the shape of a distance-time graph or speed-time graph when an object is: (a) at rest (b) moving with constant speed (c) accelerating (d) decelerating |
Learning Objective/s:
- Identify key features of distance‑time and speed‑time graphs.
- Classify motion as rest, constant speed, accelerating, or decelerating from graph shapes.
- Apply a checklist to interpret unfamiliar graphs accurately.
- Explain how slope and vertical position relate to speed and acceleration.
- Solve a short problem by describing motion from a mixed graph.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Printed worksheets with distance‑time and speed‑time graphs
- Graph paper and rulers
- Markers/coloured pens
- Exit‑ticket cards
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Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip showing a car’s motion and its corresponding graphs to spark curiosity. Review prior knowledge of speed, distance and acceleration. State that today students will learn to read graphs to determine whether an object is at rest, moving uniformly, accelerating or decelerating, and they will be able to justify their answers.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Students label axes on a blank graph and note what each axis represents.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain distance‑time vs speed‑time graphs and the meaning of slope.
- Guided practice (15'): Work through the checklist using projected sample graphs.
- Pair activity (15'): Students complete worksheets, identify motion states for several graphs, and discuss.
- Whole‑class feedback (10'): Share answers, clarify misconceptions.
- Worked example (10'): Solve the car problem, highlighting reasoning steps.
- Quick quiz (5'): Exit‑ticket – interpret one new graph independently.
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Conclusion:
Recap how slope and vertical position reveal speed and acceleration, reinforcing the checklist. Students write one key takeaway on their exit ticket. For homework, each learner creates a distance‑time graph for a chosen activity, labels the motion phases, and prepares to explain it in the next lesson.
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