Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: State that a saturated compound has molecules in which all carbon-carbon bonds are single bonds
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the definition of a saturated organic compound and its general formula.
  • Explain why saturated compounds are called “saturated” in terms of hydrogen bonding capacity.
  • Identify saturated hydrocarbons in molecular and structural formulas.
  • Distinguish saturated from unsaturated compounds, including those with functional groups.
  • Apply the concept by determining the saturation status of given formulas.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed worksheet with formula tables and quick‑check questions
  • Molecular model kits (ball‑and‑stick sets) for building alkanes
  • Whiteboard markers and eraser
  • Sample structural diagrams (e.g., butane) printed or displayed
  • Exit‑ticket slips
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a model kit showing a butane molecule, asking students what the term ‘saturated’ might imply. Recall the previous lesson on covalent bonding and hydrocarbon families. Today students will be able to state the definition of a saturated compound and recognise it in formulas and structures.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Quick‑check question: write the molecular formula for a saturated hydrocarbon containing 5 carbon atoms.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define saturated compounds, present the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, and explain why they are called “saturated”.
  3. Guided practice (10') – Use model kits and drawings to examine methane, ethane, propane, and butane, highlighting single C–C bonds.
  4. Concept check (5') – Whole‑class questioning on identifying single bonds in given structural formulas.
  5. Misconception discussion (5') – Address the ideas that all organics are saturated and that functional groups prevent saturation.
  6. Independent worksheet (10') – Students complete quick‑check questions and classify additional compounds as saturated or unsaturated.
  7. Exit ticket (5') – Write the formula for a C₅ saturated hydrocarbon and justify its saturation.
Conclusion:
Recap that saturated compounds contain only single C–C bonds and have the maximum number of hydrogen atoms attached. Students finish with an exit ticket writing the formula for a C₅ saturated hydrocarbon and a brief justification. For homework, assign a worksheet to classify a mixed list of compounds as saturated or unsaturated.