| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Physics |
| Lesson Topic: Identify alpha (α), beta (β) and gamma (γ) emissions from the nucleus by recalling: (a) their nature (b) their relative ionising effects (c) their relative penetrating abilities (β+ are not included, β-particles will be taken to refer to β−) |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the nature of alpha, beta‑minus and gamma emissions.
- Compare the ionising power and penetrating ability of the three emissions.
- Explain the appropriate shielding materials for each type of radiation.
- Apply knowledge to identify the emission type from a given nuclear reaction.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector and screen
- Whiteboard and markers
- Printed comparison handout / Venn diagram
- Radiation‑safety demo kit (α source, β⁻ source, γ source)
- Shielding samples (paper, aluminium foil, lead sheet)
- Worksheet with practice questions
- Kahoot/quiz clicker for quick check
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Introduction:
Begin with a short video showing everyday sources of radiation to spark interest. Ask students what they already know about atomic structure and nuclear decay. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify α, β⁻ and γ emissions, compare their effects, and choose suitable shielding.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5') – Students list examples of radiation they have encountered; share responses.
- Mini‑lecture with slides (10') – Present the nature, charge, mass and speed of α, β⁻ and γ emissions; show typical nuclear equations.
- Group comparison activity (10') – Using the handout, groups fill a Venn diagram contrasting ionising power and penetration.
- Demonstration (8') – Safe demo of shielding: α stopped by paper, β⁻ by 1 mm aluminium, γ by lead.
- Guided practice (10') – Worksheet where students identify the emission type from reactions and predict required shielding.
- Quick check (5') – Kahoot quiz to confirm understanding of key concepts.
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Conclusion:
Recap the three emission types, their ionising effects and shielding needs. Students complete an exit ticket stating one real‑world application for each radiation type. For homework, assign a short research task on radiation safety in medical imaging.
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