Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Describe the Periodic Table as an arrangement of elements in periods and groups and in order of increasing proton number / atomic number
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how elements are organised into periods and groups based on increasing atomic number.
  • Explain the significance of the s‑, p‑, d‑, and f‑blocks in the modern periodic table.
  • Predict basic chemical trends (e.g., reactivity, ion‑formation) using an element’s position in the table.
  • Interpret a simplified periodic‑table diagram to locate specific elements and their valence‑electron configurations.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed periodic‑table handouts (colour‑coded by block)
  • Sticky notes for element‑placement activity
  • Worksheet with trend‑analysis questions
  • Periodic‑table poster or large floor mat
 Introduction:

Begin with a quick “mystery‑element” image to spark curiosity, then ask students what they already know about how elements are organised. Briefly outline today’s success criteria: students will be able to describe the layout, explain block divisions, and use the table to predict simple trends.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students match element symbols to atomic numbers on a mini‑chart.
  2. Direct Instruction (10'): Teacher presents a colour‑coded periodic‑table diagram, highlighting periods, groups, and blocks.
  3. Guided Practice (12'): Whole‑class activity building the table on the floor using sticky notes; discuss why each element belongs in its position.
  4. Concept Check (8'): Quick quiz (Kahoot/handout) on block identification and trend predictions.
  5. Application (10'): Worksheet where pupils analyse ionisation energy and reactivity trends across a chosen period and group.
  6. Wrap‑Up (5'): Students summarise one key insight on a post‑it and place it on the board.
Conclusion:

Review the main points: increasing atomic number, the meaning of periods, groups, and blocks, and how these relate to chemical behaviour. Collect exit tickets where each student writes one trend they can now predict using the table. Assign homework to complete a short research task on an element from a chosen group.