Lesson Plan

• Identify the class of organic compound from a name ending in -ane, -ene, -ol, or -oic acid.
• Determine the compound type by comparing a molecular formula to the general formulas for alkanes, alkenes, alcohols and carboxylic acids.
• Classify a displayed structural formula by recognizing characteristic functional groups.
• Apply a step‑by‑step checklist to justify the identified compound type.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Printed worksheet with mixed practice questions
• Set of molecular‑formula cards
• Molecular model kits or drawing software
• Teacher’s quick‑reference chart (suffix table)

Have you ever wondered how chemists instantly know whether a molecule is an alkane, alkene, alcohol or acid just from its name or formula? Recall that the suffix of an IUPAC name signals the functional group and that each class follows a characteristic formula. By the end of the lesson you will be able to correctly state the compound type from a name, formula, or structural diagram.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students classify a short list of names (butane, propene, ethanol, butanoic acid) and record the expected class.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain suffixes and general formulas using the reference table.
3. Guided practice (12') – Work through molecular‑formula examples as a class, comparing hydrogen counts.
4. Interactive activity (10') – In pairs, examine structural‑formula cards and identify functional groups.
5. Independent practice (8') – Complete worksheet with mixed name, formula and diagram questions while teacher circulates.
6. Quick‑check (5') – Whole‑class review of answers using the checklist; clarify misconceptions.
7. Exit ticket (5') – Write one example of each compound type and the reasoning used.

We have reviewed how suffixes, molecular formulas and structural features reveal the compound class, and you have practiced applying a systematic checklist. Your exit ticket shows that you can independently determine the type of compound from any given information. For homework, complete the additional worksheet identifying compound types from new names and formulas, and bring any questions to the next lesson.