| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Chemistry |
| Lesson Topic: Describe an alloy as a mixture of a metal with other elements, including: (a) brass as a mixture of copper and zinc (b) stainless steel as a mixture of iron and other elements such as chromium, nickel and carbon |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe what an alloy is and why alloys are formed.
- Identify the constituent elements of brass and stainless steel.
- Compare key properties of brass and stainless steel.
- Explain how alloying elements affect corrosion resistance and strength.
- Apply knowledge to select an appropriate alloy for a given application.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Slides/PowerPoint on alloys
- Images or samples of brass and stainless steel
- Worksheet with comparison tables
- Whiteboard and markers
- Exit‑ticket cards
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Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: show a shiny brass instrument part and a stainless‑steel kitchen knife, asking students what they have in common. Recall that metals can be combined to modify properties, linking to prior lessons on pure metals. Today’s success criteria: students will be able to define alloys, list the components of brass and stainless steel, and compare their properties.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5’) – Students list three reasons why pure metals might be insufficient.
- Mini‑lecture (10’) – Definition of alloys, purpose of alloying, introduction to brass and stainless steel with slide visuals.
- Guided inquiry (12’) – Small groups examine data tables for brass and stainless steel, fill a Venn diagram comparing density, melting point, corrosion resistance, etc.
- Whole‑class discussion (8’) – Groups share findings; teacher highlights how alloying elements influence properties.
- Concept check (5’) – Quick quiz (Kahoot/hand‑raise) with three questions on composition and uses.
- Application activity (10’) – Students choose an appropriate alloy for a given scenario (e.g., musical instrument vs. medical instrument) and justify their choice on the worksheet.
- Recap & exit ticket (5’) – Students write one key fact they learned and a question they still have.
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Conclusion:
Summarise that alloys are engineered mixtures that enhance metal properties, with brass improving workability and colour, and stainless steel providing corrosion resistance and strength. For the exit ticket, students note one property that distinguishes brass from stainless steel. Homework: research another common alloy (e.g., bronze or an aluminium alloy) and prepare a brief description of its composition and uses.
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