SHS1 Physics · Semester 1 Week 20: Waves

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.2.2.LI.3 - Determine the position and characteristics of images formed by spherical mirrors with mirror formula and magnification formula.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

State the mirror formula (1/f = 1/u + 1/v) and the magnification formula (M = v/u = hi/ho) correctly, identifying each symbol and its SI unit.
Apply the Cartesian sign convention and the “real is positive” convention correctly when substituting values into the mirror formula.
Calculate the image position (v), focal length (f), or object distance (u) for both concave and convex mirrors using the mirror formula, showing all steps clearly.
Determine the magnification of an image and use its value to describe whether the image is magnified, diminished, or same size.
Predict and state the characteristics of images (real or virtual, upright or inverted, magnified or diminished) formed by concave and convex mirrors based on calculated values.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Energy (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Waves (2.2)
Content standard: 1.2.2.CS.2 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of reflection on spherical mirrors 1.2.2.LO.2 Distinguish between images formed by converging and diverging mirrors and their characteristics
Indicator: 1.2.2.LI.3 - Determine the position and characteristics of images formed by spherical mirrors with mirror formula and magnification formula.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 20 (Week 20 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 54

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential learning: Let learners use the mirror formula with the various conventions (real is positive and cartesian convention) to determine image position, magnification and characteristics.
Provide equitable access to physics resources, equipment, technology, and opportunities for hands- on experiments or projects, ensuring all learners have equal access to learning resources and experiences.
Assessment (1.2.2.AS.3). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Audio-visuals
- Spherical mirrors
- PhET interactive simulations
- Internet
- projectors
- YouTube
- Interactive
- Reference virtual laboratory books.