Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Transition elements: general properties, reactions, variable oxidation states, complex formation
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the position and defining electronic configuration of transition elements.
  • Explain why transition metals exhibit variable oxidation states and characteristic coloured ions.
  • Analyse typical reactions (redox, displacement, oxide formation) of transition metals.
  • Interpret coordination numbers, ligand types and predict geometry of simple complexes.
  • Apply crystal field theory to rationalise colour and magnetic behaviour of octahedral complexes.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides with periodic table and diagrams
  • Handouts summarising oxidation states and complex examples
  • Molecular model kits for coordination geometry
  • Worksheet for in‑class practice questions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a coloured transition‑metal solution to capture interest. Review students’ prior knowledge of d‑block placement and oxidation numbers. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe properties, predict reactions, and construct simple coordination complexes.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students label transition elements on a blank periodic table.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Definition, position, and key physical/chemical properties using slides.
  3. Interactive activity (10'): Oxidation‑state matching game with cards.
  4. Demonstration (8'): Redox/displacement reaction (e.g., Cu + 2AgNO₃) and discussion of colour changes.
  5. Coordination chemistry workshop (12'): Build an octahedral complex with model kits, introduce CFT, and complete worksheet questions.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz/exit ticket on the day’s main concepts.
Conclusion:
Summarise that transition elements’ variable oxidation states underpin their diverse reactions and complex formation. Ask students to write one example of a coordination complex on an exit ticket. Assign homework to research a real‑world application of a transition‑metal catalyst and prepare a short paragraph.