Lesson Plan

• Describe what a wave is and how it transfers energy without moving matter.
• Distinguish transverse and longitudinal mechanical waves and identify particle motion.
• Explain the relationship v = fλ and how frequency, wavelength, and speed are linked.
• Compare mechanical and electromagnetic waves regarding the need for a medium.
• Identify and correct common misconceptions about wave motion.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slides with diagrams of transverse and longitudinal waves
• Short video of water ripples and sound‑wave demo
• Worksheet with v = fλ calculations and misconception questions
• Slinky or rope for a classroom wave demonstration
• Exit‑ticket cards

Begin with a quick visual of a stone creating ripples in a pond to spark curiosity about how something can move without the water itself traveling far. Ask students what they already know about waves from previous lessons on sound and light. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain how waves carry energy while the medium’s particles return to their original positions.

1. Do‑Now (5 min): Students list examples of waves they encounter daily and note whether a medium is required.
2. Mini‑lecture with slides (10 min): Define a wave, introduce the concept of energy transfer without matter transfer, and present the wave equation v = fλ.
3. Demonstration (8 min): Use a Slinky to show transverse and longitudinal waves, highlighting particle motion.
4. Guided practice (12 min): Students work in pairs on worksheet problems applying v = fλ and classifying wave types.
5. Misconception check (5 min): Quick poll using clickers or show‑of‑hands to address common errors listed in the source.
6. Summary discussion (5 min): Review key points and answer lingering questions.

Recap that waves move energy while the medium’s particles only oscillate, reinforcing the wave equation and differences between mechanical and electromagnetic waves. Students complete an exit ticket describing one real‑world example of a wave and stating whether a medium is needed. Assign a short homework: calculate the speed of a wave given frequency and wavelength for three different scenarios.