A-Level Physics (AQA) – 7.1 Gravitational Fields & Gravitational Potential | Lesson 2

A-Level Physics (AQA) – 7.1 Gravitational Fields & Gravitational Field Strength | Lesson 2 (2026 Updated)

Fully updated for 2026, this fully editable A-Level Physics lesson covers Gravitational Fields and Gravitational Field Strength as part of AQA Section 7: Fields and Their Consequences.

Designed for Year 12, this lesson builds strong conceptual and mathematical understanding of gravitational fields, forming the foundation for later study of gravitational potential and orbital motion. The content is carefully sequenced to move from field models and diagrams to quantitative application and exam-style reasoning.

Learning Objectives:
• Illustrate and interpret gravitational field lines
• Define gravitational field strength, g, and recognise it as a vector quantity
• Distinguish between radial and uniform gravitational fields
• Explain why gravitational field strength is equivalent to acceleration
• Apply g = F / m in calculation questions
• Analyse how gravitational field strength varies with distance

What’s Included:
• Fully editable PowerPoint lesson
• Retrieval starter to activate prior knowledge
• Estimation task to develop physical intuition
• Clear modelling of gravitational field line diagrams
• Scaffolded questions exploring field strength variation
• Worked examples using AQA-style data
• Exam-style multiple-choice and extended response questions
• Plenary reflection and exit tasks for assessment for learning

Teaching Features:
• Structured using Engage → Explore → Explain → Elaborate → Evaluate → Reflect
• Strong emphasis on linking concepts to mathematical relationships
• Explicit coverage of common AQA exam misconceptions
• Clear progression from qualitative understanding to quantitative application
• Suitable for teaching, revision or intervention

Perfect For:
• AQA A-Level Physics (Year 12)
• Section 7: Fields and Their Consequences
• Lessons on gravitational fields and field strength
• Teachers wanting a specification-aligned, ready-to-teach resource

This lesson can be delivered as a standalone session or as part of a wider sequence on gravitational fields and gravitational potential.

High-quality, classroom-tested, and designed to build deep conceptual clarity alongside exam-ready problem-solving skills.