Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Describe collision theory in terms of: (a) number of particles per unit volume (b) frequency of collisions between particles (c) kinetic energy of particles (d) activation energy, $E_{mathrm{a}}$
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how particle concentration influences collision frequency.
  • Explain the effect of temperature on collision frequency and kinetic energy.
  • Interpret the role of activation energy in determining reaction rates.
  • Apply collision‑theory concepts to predict how changes in concentration, temperature or catalysts affect reaction speed.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides or digital presentation
  • Worksheet with practice problems
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Calculator for Arrhenius calculations
  • Molecular model kits or online simulation (optional)
Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of mixing two coloured solutions of different concentrations to spark curiosity about reaction speed. Ask students what factors they think control how fast reactions occur. Explain that today they will explore collision theory and identify the four key factors that govern reaction rates. Success criteria: students will be able to describe each factor and apply them to simple scenarios.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5 min): Short written prompt – list factors that might affect how quickly a reaction proceeds.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15 min): Present collision theory (particle concentration, collision frequency, kinetic energy, activation energy) with slides and an energy‑profile diagram.
  3. Guided practice (10 min): Work through the collision‑frequency equation and Boltzmann factor on the board, linking maths to concepts.
  4. Interactive activity (15 min): Using model kits or a simulation, students visualise how increasing concentration or temperature changes collision rates.
  5. Application worksheet (10 min): Small groups solve problems predicting the effect of changing concentration, temperature, or activation energy on rate constants.
  6. Check for understanding (5 min): Exit‑ticket quiz with three conceptual questions on collision theory.
Conclusion:
Recap that reaction rates depend on how often particles collide and whether they have enough energy to overcome the activation barrier. Reinforce the four factors—concentration, temperature, kinetic energy, and activation energy—and their interrelationships. Collect exit tickets and assign homework: complete a set of problems calculating rate changes using the Arrhenius equation.