Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
KINEMATICS
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KINEMATICS
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Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 2
Term: 1st Term
Week: 9
Grade code: 2.1.3.LI.1
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 3
Content standard code: 2.1.3.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.1.3.LI.1
Theme: MECHANICS AND MATTER
Subtheme: KINEMATICS
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This lesson introduces the concept of circular motion, a fundamental type of motion we see everywhere in our daily lives in Ghana. From the wheels of a "tro-tro" navigating the Tetteh Quarshie interchange, to the blades of a ceiling fan cooling a room, to the way a satellite brings us our television channels, understanding circular motion is key to understanding the world around us. We will explore the special language physicists use to describe this motion (angular quantities) and uncover the surprising fact that an object moving at a constant speed in a circle is actually *always* accelerating.
(Teacher Note: *Use a mix of lecture, questioning, and a short video clip if available, as suggested by the NaCCA exemplar. A physical demonstration of swinging a keys-on-a-lanyard or a small stone tied to a string is highly effective.*) 2.1 What is Circular Motion?
Circular motion is the movement of an object along the circumference of a circle or rotation along a circular path.
There are two main types: Uniform Circular Motion: The object moves along the circular path at a constant speed. Examples: The tip of a fan blade moving at a steady setting, a car driving around a roundabout at a constant 30 km/h. Non-uniform Circular Motion: The object's speed changes as it moves along the circular path. Example: A fan that is just starting up or slowing down.
Crucial Point: In uniform circular motion, the speed is constant, but the velocity is *not*. Why? Because velocity is a vector quantity; it has both magnitude (speed) and direction. As the object moves around the circle, its direction of motion is constantly changing. A change in velocity means there is acceleration.