IGCSE Physics: Terminal Velocity | Edexcel Modular | Unit 1 | L13

IGCSE Physics: Terminal Velocity | Edexcel Modular | Unit 1 | L13

This lesson covers spec point 1.21 — describing the forces acting on falling objects and explaining why falling objects reach a terminal velocity.

PowerPoint includes:
• Retrieval starter reviewing resultant force, F = ma and W = mg
• Direct Instruction (I Do) — forces on a falling object introduced: weight (down) and air resistance (up); three-stage model explained: initial acceleration (weight > air resistance); decreasing acceleration (air resistance increases with speed); terminal velocity (weight = air resistance, resultant = 0 N); parachutist opening parachute as extension
• Guided Practice (We Do) — describe forces at each stage of fall; explain why acceleration decreases as speed increases; sketch a velocity–time graph for a falling object reaching terminal velocity
• Independent Practice (You Do) — extended explanation questions; VT graph analysis for a skydiver with and without a parachute
• Review and Reflect — 3 MCQs and exit ticket

Activity Sheet includes:
• Three-stage free body diagram sequence (accelerating, still accelerating but less, terminal velocity)
• 10 exam-style questions on forces, terminal velocity explanations and VT graph interpretation
• Stretch question analysing the full VT graph of a skydiver who opens their parachute mid-fall, including the new lower terminal velocity
• Full mark scheme for teacher use