Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: describe and explain motion due to a uniform velocity in one direction and a uniform acceleration in a perpendicular direction
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the motion of a particle that has constant horizontal velocity and constant vertical acceleration.
  • Explain how independent x‑ and y‑motions combine to produce a parabolic trajectory.
  • Apply the equations of motion to calculate time of flight, range and impact speed for projectile problems.
  • Identify and correct common misconceptions about perpendicular acceleration and velocity.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen for slides
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Printed worksheet with example problem
  • Graphing calculator or PhET projectile‑motion simulation
  • Ruler and graph paper for sketching trajectories
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video of a basketball shot to capture interest, recall students’ prior knowledge of uniform velocity and constant acceleration, and state that by the end of the lesson they will be able to predict and analyse such motion using equations and graphs.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick worksheet on distinguishing uniform velocity from uniform acceleration (checks prior knowledge).
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Introduce independent x‑ and y‑motions, derive the two equations of motion and eliminate time to obtain the parabolic trajectory equation.
  3. Guided example (12'): Solve the cliff‑drop problem step‑by‑step, emphasizing substitution and unit consistency.
  4. Interactive simulation (8'): Use PhET to vary uₓ and a_y, observe changes in trajectory, and discuss the shape of the curve.
  5. Misconception check (5'): Kahoot quiz targeting the three common errors listed in the source.
  6. Practice problems (10'): Pairs work on two new projectile questions while the teacher circulates for support.
  7. Exit ticket (5'): Students write one sentence summarising how perpendicular acceleration influences horizontal speed.
Conclusion:
Recap the key idea that perpendicular acceleration does not alter the constant horizontal speed but creates a parabolic path. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign a homework task to analyse a real‑world projectile (e.g., a soccer kick) using the equations covered.