Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Halogenoarenes: properties, reactions
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the general structure, nomenclature and physical property trends of halogenoarenes.
  • Explain the factors influencing C–X bond strength and leaving‑group ability in aryl halides.
  • Predict the outcome of nucleophilic aromatic substitution, Grignard formation, and Wurtz‑Fittig reactions using appropriate reagents and conditions.
  • Analyse how electron‑withdrawing or donating substituents affect reactivity and select the correct mechanism.
  • Apply knowledge to solve typical A‑Level exam questions involving halogenoarene reactions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard for slides and reaction diagrams.
  • Handouts summarising trends, mechanisms, and example problems.
  • Sample spectra or molecular model kits (optional) to illustrate structures.
  • Whiteboard and markers for drawing mechanisms.
  • Worksheets with practice questions and an exit‑ticket prompt.
Introduction:

Begin with a quick image of a colorful aromatic compound and ask students what they notice about its reactivity compared to aliphatic halides. Review prior knowledge of C–X bond strength and nucleophilic substitution basics. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to predict products and choose appropriate conditions for halogenoarene reactions.

Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – short quiz on halogen trends in aliphatic compounds.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – introduce halogenoarene structure, nomenclature and physical property trends using slides.
  3. Guided practice (12’) – work through the SNAr mechanism on the board, highlighting the role of EWGs.
  4. Group activity (15’) – students analyse a set of reagents to decide which halogenoarene reactions (Grignard, Wurtz‑Fittig, Ullmann) are feasible; report findings.
  5. Checking understanding (8’) – quick concept‑question (Kahoot/raise‑hand) on bond strength vs leaving‑group ability.
  6. Application (10’) – solve the exam‑style question on 4‑nitro‑chlorobenzene; discuss answer.
Conclusion:

Summarise the key reactivity trends and the conditions that enable each type of transformation. Have students write one exit‑ticket stating which halogenoarene would be best for a Grignard preparation and why. Assign homework to complete the worksheet on predicting products of several halogenoarene reactions.