Deep Dive IBDP Physics: - A.3 Work, Energy Teacher Resource Pack

Deep Dive IBDP Physics: - A.3 Work, Energy Teacher Resource Pack

As an IBDP Physics educator, you’re constantly seeking ways to make your classroom more interactive, relevant, and aligned with the rigorous demands of the curriculum. Whether your students are working through Higher Level (HL) momentum analysis or exploring the foundations of energy and power, having the right resources can elevate your teaching and your students’ learning outcomes.

To support you on this journey, we present a suite of four hands-on, curriculum-integrated Physics activities:

• Momentum Conservation in Two Dimensions (HL)

• Uniform Circular Motion and Centripetal Forces

• Spring Compression Experiment: Hooke’s Law and Energy Storage

• Exploring Power in Electrical and Mechanical Systems

These resources are not just worksheets—they’re complete experiential learning packages designed to deepen conceptual understanding and develop practical skills. Let’s dive into what each resource offers and how it fits seamlessly into the IBDP Physics framework.

⚡ 1. Activity 4: Momentum Conservation in Two Dimensions (HL)

IBDP Focus: Topic A.2 – Forces and Momentum | Higher Level Mechanics | Vector Components

This activity challenges students to investigate two-dimensional collisions, going far beyond linear momentum. It introduces real-world physics by simulating puck collisions on a frictionless surface. Students learn to:

• Resolve momentum into x- and y-components

• Apply the law of conservation of momentum in two directions

• Determine if a collision is elastic or inelastic by comparing kinetic energy pre- and post-collision

Key Features:

• Use of motion sensors or video tracking for data collection

• Step-by-step vector breakdowns to support HL learners

• Open-ended discussion questions to encourage deeper reflection

• Opportunities for error analysis and extensions (e.g., particle physics, car crashes)

Curriculum Benefit:
This resource is particularly suited for HL students developing skills in vector resolution and multi-axis analysis—both essential for advanced physics and engineering applications.

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🌀 2. Activity 5: Uniform Circular Motion and Centripetal Forces

IBDP Focus: Topic A.2 – Forces and Momentum | Newton’s Laws | Circular Motion

Understanding centripetal force is essential for mastering Newtonian mechanics. This activity provides a vivid demonstration of how objects move in circular paths and what force is required to sustain that motion. Students:

• Calculate linear velocity, period, and centripetal force

• Explore how mass, radius, and velocity influence the required force

• Apply theoretical formulas in a real-time experimental setup

Key Features:

• Materials include a rubber stopper, string, stopwatch, and ruler

• Multiple variable manipulation: students change one variable at a time to see its effect

• Encourages discussion of real-world examples (e.g., satellites, cars on curves)

• Includes extension ideas such as tangential and radial acceleration exploration

Curriculum Benefit:
A strong link to real-world phenomena helps students connect classroom learning with practical applications, reinforcing Newton's laws and circular dynamics.

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🧷 3. Activity 7: Spring Compression Experiment – Hooke’s Law and Energy Storage

IBDP Focus: Topic A.3 – Work, Energy, and Power | Elastic Potential Energy | Hooke’s Law

Ideal for both SL and HL learners, this activity introduces Hooke’s Law and the concept of elastic potential energy in a tangible, visual way. Students will:

• Determine the spring constant (k) using force and displacement data

• Calculate elastic potential energy stored in compressed springs

• Explore energy conservation by comparing stored and released energy

Key Features:

• Use of simple materials: springs, masses, rulers, spring scales

• Comprehensive data table template for force and displacement tracking

• Direct application of the formulas  and

• Suggestions for further exploration (e.g., spring-launched object, real-world spring systems)

Curriculum Benefit:
This activity bridges theoretical energy concepts with practical, observable outcomes, helping students internalize the mechanics of energy transfer and transformation.

SEO Keywords: Hooke’s Law classroom activity, IBDP Physics spring lab, elastic potential energy experiment, IB physics energy conservation, spring constant calculation.

🔋 4. Activity 8: Exploring Power in Electrical and Mechanical Systems

IBDP Focus: Topic A.3 – Work, Energy, and Power | Systems Comparison | Power Efficiency

This multifaceted activity allows students to explore power as the rate of energy transfer in both electrical and mechanical systems. It provides hands-on experience in measuring:

• Electrical power using current (I) and voltage (V):

• Mechanical power using force (F) and velocity (v):

Students compare outputs in both systems and consider energy efficiency under varying conditions.

Key Features:

• Dual-system analysis: electrical circuits with resistors and mechanical systems with carts

• Use of ammeters, voltmeters, spring scales, and stopwatches

• Emphasis on real-world connections like electric motors, automotive systems, and renewable energy

• Optional efficiency analysis by comparing input and output power

Curriculum Benefit:
A versatile resource that encourages systems thinking and quantitative analysis, preparing students for both academic and practical applications in engineering and physics.

SEO Keywords: electrical power calculation IBDP, mechanical power lab, energy efficiency physics, IBDP Physics work and energy, power output comparison experiment.

🌍 Why These Resources Matter

✔ Curriculum-Aligned and Ready-to-Use

All four resources are fully aligned with IBDP Physics topics, reducing planning time and ensuring content coverage without compromise.

✔ Promote Inquiry-Based Learning

Each activity is designed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, key pillars of the IBDP learning model.

✔ Engage Students with Real-World Physics

From satellite orbits to electric circuits and spring systems, these activities contextualize abstract concepts in everyday scenarios.

✔ Adaptable for Differentiated Instruction

Whether teaching SL or HL students, these experiments offer built-in flexibility for varying levels of complexity and depth.

DP PHY A.3 Work, Energy Teacher Resource Pack

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