Lesson Plan

• Describe the principle behind each of the five separation techniques.
• Explain how solubility, particle size and boiling‑point differences dictate the choice of method.
• Apply an appropriate technique to a given mixture and calculate the yield or purity of the product.
• Evaluate the advantages and limitations of each method and justify a sequence of techniques for higher purity.
• Demonstrate safe laboratory practices while performing separations.

• Projector and screen
• Student worksheets / handouts
• Separatory funnel, beakers, test tubes
• Filter paper, funnel, stand
• Heating mantle, thermometer, condenser
• Fractionating column (packed or glass‑bead)
• Safety goggles, gloves, lab coats

Begin with a quick demonstration of coffee filtering to hook students on everyday separations. Review prior knowledge of solubility and boiling points, then state that today they will master five laboratory techniques and be able to select the most efficient one for any mixture.

1. Do‑now (5') – short quiz on physical properties that influence separation.
2. Mini‑lecture (15') – overview of principles for solvent extraction, filtration, crystallisation, simple and fractional distillation.
3. Demonstration (20') – teacher shows solvent extraction followed by gravity filtration; students note observations.
4. Group activity (15') – design a crystallisation experiment for an impure solid, decide solvent and cooling method.
5. Distillation demo (15') – simple distillation of water/ethanol, then switch to fractional column; discuss temperature profiles.
6. Comparative analysis (10') – students complete a table comparing advantages/limitations of each method.
7. Exit ticket (5') – write the best technique for a provided mixture scenario.

Summarise the key criteria for choosing a separation method and revisit the exit‑ticket responses. Collect the tickets, remind students of the homework worksheet on selecting techniques for three new mixtures, and preview the next lesson on analytical testing.