Lesson Plan

• Describe the physical and chemical properties of ethanol that make it an effective solvent.
• Explain how ethanol is employed as a solvent in laboratory and industrial processes.
• Analyse the combustion of ethanol and its advantages as a fuel.
• Compare pure ethanol with ethanol‑gasoline blends in terms of energy output and emissions.
• Evaluate the renewable production of ethanol and its role in sustainable energy strategies.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slide deck on ethanol properties and uses
• Handout summarising ethanol’s uses
• Sealed sample of ethanol for a safe flame demonstration
• Worksheet with case‑study questions
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with a quick think‑pair‑share: “Where have you seen or heard ethanol used?” Connect responses to prior knowledge of solvents and fuels. State that by the end of the lesson students will be able to identify and justify ethanol’s dual roles and evaluate its sustainability.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list everyday products containing ethanol and share a few examples.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Present ethanol’s key properties and why they suit solvent applications (slides with molecular diagram).
3. Group activity (15’) – Teams work on case studies (one on solvent use, one on fuel use) and complete the worksheet.
4. Demonstration (5’) – Safe flame test of ethanol to illustrate combustion; discuss the reaction equation.
5. Whole‑class discussion (10’) – Compare ethanol as a solvent versus a fuel, highlighting environmental benefits.
6. Quick quiz (5’) – Exit ticket with two short questions to check understanding.

Recap the main points: ethanol’s polarity makes it a versatile solvent, and its clean combustion makes it a useful fuel. Collect the exit tickets and remind students to complete the homework worksheet that asks them to propose a new sustainable use for ethanol.