Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 18/01/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: Know the distinguishing properties of solids, liquids and gases
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the characteristic shape, volume and particle arrangement of solids, liquids and gases.
  • Explain how particle motion and compressibility differ among the three states of matter.
  • Compare diffusion rates and densities of the three states using a comparison table.
  • Apply the ideal‑gas equation to relate pressure, volume and temperature for gases.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed handout with comparison table
  • Samples: ice cube (solid), water in beaker (liquid), balloon with air (gas)
  • Worksheet for individual practice
  • Markers and chart paper
  • Ruler (optional for measuring)
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: drop an ice cube into a glass of water and then release a balloon of air into the same container. Ask students what they notice about the shape and volume of each material, linking to prior lessons on matter. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify and compare the key properties of solids, liquids and gases.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – students list known properties of the three states on sticky notes.
  2. Mini‑lecture with slides (10') – present key concepts and particle‑motion diagrams.
  3. Guided inquiry (12') – groups examine the three samples, record observations, fill a comparison chart.
  4. Whole‑class discussion (8') – compare results, highlight differences in compressibility and diffusion.
  5. Ideal‑gas equation demonstration (7') – teacher models using a balloon to show pV=nRT.
  6. Individual worksheet (10') – students answer application questions.
  7. Quick check (3') – exit ticket: one sentence describing the most distinctive property of each state.
Conclusion:
Summarise that solids retain shape and volume, liquids adopt the container’s shape while keeping volume, and gases take both shape and volume of their container. Collect the exit tickets to gauge understanding and address any misconceptions. For homework, assign a short task to create a real‑world example for each property discussed.