NEW AQA Physics (2016) - UV Waves, X-rays and Gamma Rays

This lesson is designed for the NEW AQA Physics GCSE, particularly the ‘Electromagnetic Waves’ SoW.

For more lessons designed to meet specification points for the NEW AQA Trilogy specifications for Biology, Chemistry and Physics please see my shop: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/shop/SWiftScience

The lesson begins with a ‘Think > Pair > Share’ task, asking students to look at the place of UV waves on the electromagnetic spectrum, and asking them to think about the properties of these waves. The next slide goes on to explain that ultraviolet waves fall between visible light and X-rays on the electromagnetic spectrum. UV waves have a higher energy and frequency compared to visible light, but a shorter wavelength. The next slide outlines how UV waves from the sun can cause damage to our skin, and our cells, and explains the methods we can use to protect ourselves against this harm.

The next part of the lesson focuses on X-rays, and gamma rays. Students will firstly watch a video about these two types of EM waves. Whilst students are watching the video, they will need to answer a set of questions on the topic. The answers to this task are included so students can mark their work once it is complete. The next task is a comprehension exercise, students will need to read an information sheet on the use of X-rays in medicine. Once they have done this, they can answer the questions provided and then mark their work using the mark scheme.

Next, is an activity whereby students will need to put the statements in the correct order to describe the steps involved in producing an X-ray image. They can assess their work using the answers provided once complete. Then the final activity is a worksheet on the topic of UV waves, X-rays and gamma rays. Students can complete this in their books, and then use the mark scheme to either peer assess or self-assess their work.

The plenary task requires students to complete an exit card to summarise what they did and didn’t get from the lesson today. This can be handed to the teacher at the end of the lesson.

All resources are included. Thanks for looking, if you have any questions please let me know at swyftresources@gmail.com.