Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Chemistry
Lesson Topic: State the symbol equations for the extraction of iron from hematite (a) $mathrm{C}+mathrm{O}_2 \rightarrow mathrm{CO}_2$ (b) $mathrm{C}+mathrm{CO}_2 \rightarrow 2 mathrm{CO}$ (c) $mathrm{Fe}_2 mathrm{O}_3+3 mathrm{CO} \rightarrow 2 mathrm{Fe}+3 mathrm{C
Learning Objective/s:
  • Write and balance the three key symbol equations involved in iron extraction from hematite.
  • Explain the role of carbon monoxide as the reducing agent in a blast furnace.
  • Describe how limestone and silica are used to remove impurities as slag.
  • Interpret a schematic of a blast furnace to identify material flows.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slide deck with equations and blast‑furnace diagram
  • Worksheet for balancing equations and matching purposes
  • Model of a blast furnace (optional)
  • Chemistry textbook or reference sheet
 Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip showing a blast furnace in operation to capture interest. Ask students what they know about how metals are obtained from ores, linking to prior lessons on reduction reactions. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to write the symbol equations for extracting iron from hematite and understand each step’s purpose.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – quick recall quiz on oxidation‑reduction symbols; teacher checks answers.
  2. Direct instruction (10’) – present the three core equations, discuss balancing and the role of each reactant/product.
  3. Guided practice (10’) – students work in pairs to complete a worksheet matching each equation to its purpose in the blast‑furnace process.
  4. Demonstration (5’) – show the blast‑furnace diagram, label inputs, outputs, and slag formation.
  5. Whole‑class discussion (5’) – review worksheet answers and clarify misconceptions about flux and temperature.
  6. Exit ticket (5’) – students write one equation from memory and state its purpose.
Conclusion:
Summarise that iron extraction relies on carbon‑derived gases to reduce Fe₂O₃ while limestone creates slag to purify the metal. For the exit ticket, students submit the equation they recalled and its purpose. Assign homework to research another metal extraction method and compare its chemical equations.