LuduminaEN-05 · EN-U2 · Planned
Kinetic energy
Learning objectives
Calculate KE and infer square-law speed effects; explain energy changes in acceleration and impact.
8463 §§4.1.1.2 / 8464 §§6.1.1.2
DfE single-science pp.34–35 / Combined pp.29–30. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS1.2,3.5; MS3b,3c,4a.
Needs firstEN-04; P0 squares
Explanation
Kinetic energy grows linearly with mass but with the square of speed. If speed doubles while mass stays fixed, KE becomes four times greater. In braking, this energy transfers into the internal energy of brakes and surroundings.
Concepts, equations and units: E_k = ½mv²; J, kg, m/s.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Compare carts at v and 2v with equal mass; measure model speed and reveal energies.
Planned learner game exercise
Tune mass and speed to a target energy; stop the cart in an absorber and account for the transfer.
Independent practice
Three KE questions, one solving for speed; compare E_k–v and E_k–v² plots.
Original practice example · Shared
A 4 kg cart travels at 3 m/s. Find its KE, then its KE at 6 m/s.
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
½ × 4 × 3² = 18 J; ½ × 4 × 6² = 72 J.
Answer
18 J and 72 J; doubling speed gives fourfold KE.
Exit check and success criteria
Two numerical answers correct and doubling speed identified as fourfold KE.
During practice, compare the prediction with evidence and give an error-specific prompt. The exit item uses a fresh context or fresh values, answered independently.
Misconceptions, practical links and mastery
Check these misconceptions
Doubling speed doubles KE; an impact destroys energy.
Practical preparation
Optional cart/light-gate data, AT1,3.
Virtual preparation and revision only. Required hands-on activities and school records remain separate.
Proposed mastery
0: not yet evidenced. 1: supported. 2: independent exit criteria met. 3: successful changed-context transfer. Advance at 2; revisit with fresh retrieval. These are not GCSE grades.