Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Describe the similarity in properties between diamond and silicon(IV) oxide, related to their structures
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the giant covalent network structures of diamond and silicon(IV) oxide.
  • Explain how sp³ hybridisation and tetrahedral coordination produce their physical properties.
  • Compare melting point, hardness, conductivity and solubility of the two substances.
  • Predict how variations in crystal lattice affect material behaviour.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slide deck with crystal diagrams
  • Handout containing the comparison table
  • 3‑D model kits (diamond and quartz)
  • Worksheet for guided practice
  • Markers and whiteboard
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of a diamond and a quartz crystal to spark curiosity. Review students’ prior knowledge of covalent bonding and hybridisation. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to link structure to the shared properties of these materials.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on covalent bonds and hybridisation.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Introduce giant covalent networks, sp³ hybridisation, and tetrahedral coordination using diagrams.
  3. Guided analysis (12'): Examine the property comparison table and discuss why the structures cause similar behaviours.
  4. Hands‑on activity (10'): Students manipulate 3‑D models to visualise the repeating tetrahedral pattern.
  5. Check for understanding (8'): Think‑pair‑share answering “Which property is most directly explained by the network structure?”
  6. Summary & exit ticket (5'): Write one property and the structural reason behind it on a sticky note.
Conclusion:
Recap how the 3‑D covalent network and sp³ hybridisation account for the high melting points, hardness and insulating nature of both substances. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign a short homework: create a labelled sketch of either diamond or quartz highlighting tetrahedral coordination.