Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: state that Archaea and Bacteria are prokaryotes and that there are differences between them, limited to differences in membrane lipids, ribosomal RNA and composition of cell walls
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe why Archaea and Bacteria are classified as prokaryotes.
  • Identify the three key biochemical differences between Archaea and Bacteria (membrane lipids, 16S rRNA sequence, cell‑wall composition).
  • Compare the specific characteristics of each group using the provided table.
  • Explain how these differences inform evolutionary relationships and laboratory identification.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides with comparative table
  • Printed handout of the table for each student
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Sticky notes for exit ticket
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick image of two microscopic cells and ask students what they know about organisms without a nucleus. Review that both Archaea and Bacteria lack membrane‑bound organelles, establishing the success criteria: students will be able to list and explain three biochemical differences.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students write on a sticky note one feature they think separates Archaea from Bacteria.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present the classification overview and show the comparative table.
  3. Guided analysis (12'): In pairs, students annotate the handout, highlighting lipid, rRNA, and cell‑wall differences.
  4. Class discussion (8'): Groups share findings; teacher clarifies misconceptions.
  5. Application activity (10'): Students match sample organisms to either Archaea or Bacteria based on given traits.
  6. Formative check (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot or show of hands on key points.
Conclusion:
Summarize that despite both being prokaryotes, Archaea and Bacteria differ in membrane lipids, rRNA sequences, and cell‑wall composition, which impacts their ecology and identification. For the exit ticket, learners write one difference they found most surprising. Homework: read the textbook section on prokaryotic diversity and prepare a one‑page summary.