Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Know that microwave radiation of a specific frequency is observed at all points in space around us and is known as cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR)
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe what the Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation (CMBR) is and list its key properties.
  • Explain how the CMBR provides evidence for the Big Bang model.
  • Calculate the peak wavelength or frequency of the CMBR using Wien’s law.
  • Interpret the significance of temperature anisotropies in the CMBR.
  • Identify the instruments and methods used to detect the CMBR.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides presentation
  • Printed worksheet with CMBR data table
  • Scientific calculators
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Short video clip of COBE/WMAP observations
 Introduction:
Begin with a brief video showing the faint microwave glow of the sky and ask students if they know of any radiation that fills all of space. Connect this to prior learning on the electromagnetic spectrum and black‑body radiation. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe the CMBR, calculate its peak wavelength, and explain its role in supporting the Big Bang theory.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – quick quiz on EM spectrum and black‑body concepts.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – definition of CMBR, observational facts, temperature and peak frequency.
  3. Guided calculation (10') – pairs use Wien’s law to find wavelength/frequency; teacher circulates.
  4. Demonstration/video (5') – show COBE/WMAP detection footage and discuss instrumentation.
  5. Data analysis activity (10') – students interpret the CMBR property table and discuss anisotropies.
  6. Concept check (5') – exit‑ticket question: “Why does the CMBR support the Big Bang model?”
  7. Summary discussion (5') – recap key points and clarify any misconceptions.
Conclusion:
Review the definition, temperature, and peak frequency of the CMBR and how it confirms the Big Bang theory. Collect an exit‑ticket where each student writes one sentence summarising why the CMBR is important. Assign homework to solve a Wien’s law problem for a different temperature and to read a short article on recent findings from the Planck mission.