Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 18/01/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: State the distinguishing properties of solids, liquids and gases
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the distinguishing properties of solids, liquids and gases.
  • Explain how particle arrangement and intermolecular forces relate to each state of matter.
  • Compare shape, volume, compressibility and diffusion across the three states.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides with property table
  • Printed worksheet with comparison chart
  • Sample objects (ice cube, water in beaker, inflated balloon)
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration showing an ice cube, a beaker of water, and an inflated balloon. Ask students what they notice about shape and volume, linking observations to prior knowledge of particles and kinetic energy. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify and explain the key properties that distinguish solids, liquids and gases.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Complete a quick table matching everyday examples to solid, liquid or gas.
  2. Teacher input (10') – Present slides on particle arrangement, intermolecular forces and the five distinguishing properties.
  3. Guided activity (15') – In pairs, fill missing descriptors in a comparison chart and discuss differences.
  4. Demonstration (10') – Melt ice and inflate a balloon, linking observations to particle spacing and kinetic energy.
  5. Check for understanding (5') – Quick quiz using clickers or show of hands.
  6. Summary discussion (5') – Students verbally summarise one key property for each state.
Conclusion:
Review the five properties that differentiate the states of matter and have pupils recap an example for each state. Collect exit tickets where each student writes the property they found most challenging. Assign homework to create a mind‑map linking particle motion to phase changes.