Physics: Specific Heat Capacity Practical | Edexcel Modular | L9

This two-lesson resource covers spec point 4.14P — investigating the specific heat capacity of aluminium using an immersion heater and joulemeter, calculating c from experimental results, and evaluating the method.
PowerPoint includes:

Retrieval starter requiring students to state and rearrange ΔQ = mcΔT
Direct Instruction (I Do) — apparatus explained including role of oil, insulation and joulemeter
Guided Practice (We Do) — assembly checklist, zeroing procedure and prediction of error direction
Lesson 1 Independent Practice — students carry out the experiment, recording mass, temperatures and energy
Lesson 2 Independent Practice — students calculate c, compare to accepted value of 900 J/kg°C and evaluate
Temperature lag concept explained with graph
Sources of error analysis and terminology matching activity
Review and Reflect exit ticket

Activity Sheet includes:

Lesson 1 data collection table
Calculation scaffold box: c = ΔQ ÷ (m × ΔT) = ___ ÷ (___ × ___) with comparison to accepted value
Lesson 1 analysis questions covering calculation, oil in holes, insulation and systematic error
Lesson 2 data analysis questions including temperature lag and larger block misconception
Stretch question on effect of block size on calculated c
Full mark scheme for teacher use

This lesson is part of the complete Unit 4 resource pack, available separately at a discounted bundle price.