Lesson Plan

• Describe the key characteristics of progressive waves (direction, amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period, speed).
• Explain the relationship v = f λ and how to rearrange it to solve for any variable.
• Apply v = f λ to calculate the missing quantity in a range of wave scenarios.
• Identify and avoid common mistakes when using the formula (unit errors, confusing wavelength with amplitude, forgetting to convert period to frequency).

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slide deck with wave diagrams and formula derivation
• Student handout containing worked examples and practice problems
• Scientific calculators (one per student)
• Ruler or measuring tape for demonstration
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with a short video of a siren passing by to illustrate how a wave’s pitch changes with motion. Ask students what they already know about frequency and wavelength, linking to prior lessons on oscillations. State that by the end of the lesson they will reliably use v = f λ to find any missing wave parameter.

1. Do‑now (5 '): Quick quiz on definitions of frequency, wavelength, period, and wave speed.
2. Mini‑lecture (10 '): Review wave characteristics, derive v = f λ, and display a sinusoidal diagram.
3. Guided practice (15 '): Work through Example 1 and Example 2 together, students calculate and discuss answers.
4. Independent practice (10 '): Students complete a worksheet with three new problems while the teacher circulates.
5. Misconception check (5 '): Highlight common mistakes; students correct errors on the board.
6. Recap & exit ticket (5 '): Students write one correct application of v = f λ and one mistake to avoid; collect for assessment.

Summarise how the three wave quantities are interrelated and remind students of the importance of consistent units. Collect exit tickets as a retrieval check and assign homework: complete the additional set of v = f λ problems from the textbook chapter on progressive waves.