Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: determine velocity using the gradient of a displacement–time graph
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the relationship between the gradient of a displacement–time graph and velocity.
  • Calculate instantaneous velocity from straight‑line and curved segments of a displacement–time graph.
  • Interpret the sign of the gradient to determine direction of motion.
  • Identify common errors when extracting gradients and apply correct unit conventions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Graph paper and rulers
  • Calculator
  • Worksheet with displacement–time graphs
  • Printed example graphs
  • Sticky notes for exit tickets
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a car moving along a straight track while a displacement–time graph is plotted live. Recall that displacement is a vector quantity and that the slope of a graph represents a rate of change. Today’s success criteria: students will correctly determine velocity from both linear and curved sections of a displacement–time graph.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students complete a short worksheet calculating average velocity from a simple s‑t table. Teacher checks answers.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Review gradient concept and link to velocity, using projector to show examples.
  3. Guided practice (15'): Work through the straight‑line example together, students calculate Δs/Δt and discuss sign.
  4. Hands‑on activity (15'): In pairs, students draw tangents on curved graphs, measure rise/run, compute instantaneous velocity, and record results.
  5. Formative check (5'): Quick quiz (exit ticket) with one problem on each graph type; teacher reviews common pitfalls.
Conclusion:
Summarise that the gradient of a displacement–time graph gives instantaneous velocity and that sign indicates direction. For homework, assign three practice questions from the worksheet to reinforce gradient calculations.