Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: State that metals or hydrogen are formed at the cathode and that non-metals (other than hydrogen) are formed at the anode
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the processes occurring at the cathode and anode during electrolysis.
  • Explain why metals or hydrogen are produced at the cathode.
  • Identify the non‑metal products formed at the anode and the conditions that affect them.
  • Apply half‑reaction equations to predict products for given electrolytes.
  • Analyse common misconceptions about electrode reactions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Electrolysis demonstration kit (electrolytic cell, electrodes, power supply)
  • Worksheets with reaction tables
  • Printed diagram of an electrolytic cell
  • Safety goggles and gloves
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video of gas bubbles forming at an electrode to spark curiosity. Review students’ prior knowledge of oxidation‑reduction and ion migration in solutions. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to predict which substances form at each electrode during electrolysis.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Quick quiz on oxidation vs. reduction concepts.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Define cathode, anode, electron flow, and present the lesson objective.
  3. Demonstration (15') – Perform electrolysis of molten NaCl and aqueous CuSO₄; students record observed gases and metal deposits.
  4. Guided practice (10') – Complete worksheet half‑reaction equations to predict products for several electrolytes.
  5. Concept check (5') – Clicker or show‑of‑hands questions addressing common mistakes.
  6. Summary activity (5') – Fill the Quick Revision Checklist individually.
Conclusion:
Recap the rule that metals or hydrogen appear at the cathode while non‑metals appear at the anode, linking it to the half‑reactions practiced. Ask students to write one exit‑ticket answer describing the expected product for a new electrolyte. Assign homework to complete a set of electrolysis problems from the textbook.