Lesson Plan

• Describe the definition of polymers and monomers.
• Explain the two main polymerisation mechanisms (addition and condensation).
• Compare the size and physical properties of monomers versus polymers.
• Identify common synthetic and natural polymer examples.
• Predict how polymer structure influences material properties.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slide deck with polymer diagrams
• Handout summarising key terms and examples
• Sample items (plastic bag, polyester fabric)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Exit‑ticket cards

Begin with a quick visual of everyday plastic items to spark curiosity. Ask students what these items have in common and link it to the idea of large molecules made from smaller building blocks. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to define polymers, explain how they form, and recognise real‑world examples.

1. Do‑now (5'): Students list three objects they think are polymers and share why.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define monomer, polymer, and polymerisation; introduce addition vs condensation.
3. Interactive diagram (8'): Using the projector, build a polymer chain step‑by‑step, highlighting the two mechanisms.
4. Comparison activity (7'): In pairs, complete a table contrasting monomer vs polymer properties (size, state, examples).
5. Real‑world examples (5'): Show sample items, discuss their monomer origins and applications.
6. Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot or hand‑raise questions.
7. Exit ticket (5'): Write one way polymer structure affects a material property.

Summarise that polymers are large molecules assembled from repeating monomers through either addition or condensation reactions, and that this structure determines their properties and uses. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and assign homework: research a polymer not covered today and describe its monomer and polymerisation type.