Physics Year 11 - Module 2 - Lesson 2
Vector Forces — Resolution and Equilibrium
1. Key Ideas
Forces do not just add up — they add up in the direction they point. Getting the direction wrong means getting the answer wrong.
- What a resultant force is
- Why vector addition is not the same as scalar addition
2. Success Criteria
By the end, you should be able to:
- What a resultant force is
- How to add forces in 1D algebraically
- What Fx = F cos θ and Fy = F sin θ mean
3. Key Terms
4. Activity: Build the Lesson Map
Use the lesson to complete the table. Keep answers brief but specific.
| Prompt | Your answer |
|---|---|
| Main concept | |
| Important example | |
| Common mistake to avoid | |
| How this links to the next lesson |
5. Short Answer Questions
1. Explain this lesson goal in your own words: "What a resultant force is". Use one specific example from the lesson.
2. Apply this idea to a new example: "How to add forces in 1D algebraically". Show your reasoning clearly.
3. Analyse why this idea matters for understanding Vector Forces — Resolution and Equilibrium: "What Fx = F cos θ and Fy = F sin θ mean".
6. Extend: Apply the Idea
A student gives a memorised answer about Vector Forces — Resolution and Equilibrium but does not use evidence or reasoning.
Improve the answer by writing a stronger response that uses accurate terminology, a relevant example and a clear explanation.
7. Multiple Choice
1. What is the best first step when answering a question about Vector Forces — Resolution and Equilibrium?
A. Identify the key concept being tested
B. Write every fact from memory
C. Ignore the command word
D. Skip examples and evidence
2. Which answer would show stronger understanding of Vector Forces — Resolution and Equilibrium?
A. An answer with accurate terms and reasoning
B. A copied definition only
C. A single-word response
D. An answer with no example
3. What should you do if a question asks you to explain?
A. Link the idea to a reason or cause
B. List unrelated facts
C. Only draw a diagram
D. Write the shortest possible answer
8. Success Criteria Proof
Finish with evidence that you can do each success criterion.