NEW AQA Physics (2016) - Atmospheric Pressure

This lesson is designed for the NEW AQA Physics GCSE, particularly the ‘Motion’ 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 definition of atmospheric pressure, including a diagram to demonstrate the collision of particles with surfaces. This leads into an activity whereby students will watch a video on the topic of how and why atmospheric pressure changes with altitude, and how the density of the atmosphere changes with altitude. As students are watching the video, they will answer a set of questions. This can be marked using the answers provided within the PowerPoint slides.

Next, students will be shown a diagram which demonstrated why, in terms of particles, there is lower pressure higher above sea level, and higher pressure closer to sea level. Students will then be asked to add particles and labels to both diagrams on their worksheet to show the effect of altitude on atmospheric pressure, and how density of the atmosphere changes with altitude.

Students will now be introduced to the idea of the ‘death zone’ on Mount Everest, and will be given information about the altitudes in which climbers can reach on this mountain. Students will be asked to consider what effect this might have on the climbers bodies. Once they have had a chance to discuss their ideas, the next slide explains why very high altitudes, such as at the summit of Mount Everest, climbers bodies can experience life-threatening conditions.

Next, students are presented with a calculation which can be used to calculate the pressure at sea level, and are shown a worked example using this equation. After students are confident with the use of this equation, they can complete the quick check on the next slide. The answers to this task are included in the PowerPoint so students can either self-assess or peer-assess their work.

Lastly, students can complete the worksheet on atmospheric pressure, and then mark their work using the mark scheme provided.

The plenary task requires students to spend a minute talking to the person next to them about what they have learned today.

All resources are included. Thanks for looking, if you have any questions please let me know in the comments section and any feedback would be appreciated.