Lesson Plan

• Describe what defines a homologous series and the role of the functional group.
• Explain how the –CH₂– repeating unit creates predictable trends in physical properties.
• Apply the general formulae to identify members of common series (alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids).
• Predict boiling point, melting point, and solubility trends within a series.
• Name the first three members of a given homologous series using IUPAC rules.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed handouts with series tables and naming worksheet
• Molecular model kits (optional)
• Periodic‑table poster
• Exit‑ticket slips

Begin with a quick question: “Why do methane and ethane react in similar ways?” Students recall their knowledge of functional groups, then the teacher outlines today’s success criteria – defining a homologous series, describing its trends, and naming its first members.

1. Do‑now (5'): short quiz on functional groups and basic organic formulas.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): definition of homologous series, key characteristics, and general formulae using slides.
3. Guided practice (10'): students complete a table of series (alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids) identifying repeating units and property trends.
4. Naming activity (8'): worksheet where pupils name the first three members of a chosen series following IUPAC rules.
5. Concept check (5'): think‑pair‑share on why the functional group determines chemical similarity.
6. Exit ticket (2'): each student writes one physical‑property trend and an example series.

Summarise that a homologous series shares a functional group, differs by –CH₂– units, and shows predictable property changes. Collect exit tickets and remind students to finish the worksheet at home, researching another series (e.g., amines) to present next lesson.