Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: Predict the identity of the products at each electrode for the electrolysis of a binary compound in the molten state
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the roles of the cathode and anode during molten‑salt electrolysis.
  • Predict the products formed at each electrode for a given binary molten compound.
  • Apply half‑reaction equations to write balanced overall electrolysis equations.
  • Explain how standard electrode potentials influence which species is reduced or oxidised.
  • Use a step‑by‑step checklist to verify the plausibility of predicted products.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Printed worksheet with ion tables and checklist
  • Diagram of an electrolytic cell (handout or slide)
  • Lab safety goggles and heat‑resistant gloves
  • Crucible, power supply, and sample molten salts (e.g., NaCl, CaCl₂) for a brief demonstration
  • Answer key for practice questions
 Introduction:

Begin with a striking image of a glowing molten salt cell to capture interest. Review students’ prior knowledge of redox reactions and half‑reactions. State that by the end of the lesson they will reliably predict electrode products for any binary molten compound and justify their answers.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students list the cation and anion for a given molten salt on a sticky note.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain cathode reduction and anode oxidation using half‑reaction notation; highlight electrode potential considerations.
  3. Guided Practice (12'): Work through the CaCl₂ example together, filling in a checklist on the board.
  4. Collaborative Activity (15'): In pairs, students choose a new molten compound from a card deck, predict products, write balanced equations, and check against the checklist.
  5. Whole‑class Debrief (8'): Pairs share results; teacher clarifies misconceptions and reinforces special cases (transition metals, dual‑metal salts).
  6. Formative Check (5'): Quick exit ticket – write the product at the cathode for NaCl and at the anode for MgO.
Conclusion:

Summarise the five‑step procedure for predicting electrolysis products and remind students of the importance of electrode potentials. Collect exit tickets and assign a short worksheet for homework that includes three new molten salts to analyse.