Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: State that during α-decay or β-decay, the nucleus changes to that of a different element
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how α‑decay changes the atomic number and mass number of a nucleus.
  • Explain the change in atomic number during β⁻ and β⁺ decay.
  • Identify the daughter element from a given nuclear equation.
  • Apply the concept to predict element changes in common decay examples.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint slides with decay diagrams
  • Printed worksheet with nuclear equations
  • Periodic‑table posters
  • Isotope cards for a quick‑sort activity
  • Clickers or online polling app for quick checks
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of a radioactive atom emitting particles to capture interest. Review that the atomic number defines an element and ask students to predict what happens when that number changes. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain and identify the new element after α‑ or β‑decay.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students answer Quick Check Q1 on the worksheet; teacher collects responses.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain α‑decay, show the equation and illustrate the –2 change in Z.
  3. Guided practice (10'): Work through β⁻ and β⁺ decay examples using isotope cards, highlighting Z + 1 or Z – 1.
  4. Interactive simulation (8'): Use an online decay simulator to visualise particle emission and resulting daughter nuclei.
  5. Group activity (12'): Teams complete a matching table of parent‑daughter nuclei, justifying the element change.
  6. Formative check (5'): Kahoot quiz where students identify the daughter element from given decay equations.
Conclusion:
Recap that any change in atomic number means a different element, summarising the –2, +1, and –1 shifts for α, β⁻, and β⁺ decays. Have students write one exit‑ticket sentence describing why uranium becomes thorium after α‑decay. Assign a short homework: complete a worksheet converting three additional decay equations and label the new elements.