Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Alcohols: properties, reactions, preparation
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the classification, physical properties and hydrogen‑bonding behaviour of alcohols.
  • Explain the mechanisms and outcomes of oxidation, dehydration, substitution and esterification reactions of alcohols.
  • Predict the most suitable preparation method for a given alcohol based on its carbon skeleton and functional‑group tolerance.
  • Apply knowledge to solve exam‑style questions involving reaction conditions and product identification.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides summarising classification and reactions
  • Printed handouts with reaction tables and practice problems
  • Molecular model kits (optional for visualising structures)
  • Sample alcohols (e.g., ethanol) for safe demonstration
  • Safety goggles and lab coats
  • Worksheet for group stations
Introduction:

Begin with a quick discussion of everyday products that contain alcohols (e.g., hand sanitiser, fuels) to capture interest. Review students’ prior knowledge of functional groups and naming conventions. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify alcohol types, predict reaction outcomes and choose appropriate preparation routes.

Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): short quiz on functional groups and naming primary, secondary, tertiary alcohols.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15'): classification, physical properties and key IR feature; use slides and model kits.
  3. Reaction stations (20'): groups rotate through four stations (oxidation, dehydration, substitution, esterification) with brief demos or guided worksheets.
  4. Guided practice (10'): whole‑class problem on selecting a preparation method for a target alcohol.
  5. Check for understanding (5'): Kahoot/exit‑ticket with three conceptual questions.
  6. Summary & recap (5'): teacher highlights key points and links back to success criteria.
Conclusion:

Recap the four main reaction types and the factors influencing alcohol preparation. Students complete an exit ticket summarising one reaction mechanism and one preparation method. For homework, assign the worksheet that requires students to match given reagents and conditions to the correct alcohol reaction.