Topic: Metals – Uses of Metals
Lesson 1: Uses of Aluminium
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Describe the uses of aluminium in terms of its physical properties, including: (a) manufacture of aircraft due to its low density,(b) manufacture of overhead electrical cables due to its low density and good electrical conductivity,(c) food containers due to its resistance to corrosion. |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Show images of aircraft, overhead cables, and aluminium food containers. Ask: “What makes aluminium suitable for these applications?”- Main (25 mins): 1. Explain aluminium’s low density and how it helps in aircraft manufacturing (lighter weight reduces fuel consumption). 2. Discuss aluminium’s electrical conductivity and low density as reasons for its use in overhead electrical cables. 3. Explain aluminium’s resistance to corrosion (due to the formation of a protective oxide layer) for use in food containers. 4. Highlight real-life examples of aluminium applications.- Plenary (10 mins): Students complete a table summarizing the uses of aluminium and the physical properties that make it suitable. |
| Resources | Images or videos of aluminium applications, worksheets, periodic table. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Write a paragraph explaining why aluminium is preferred over other metals for aircraft manufacturing. |
| Assessment | Worksheet: Match aluminium’s physical properties to its uses. |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/M/J/20 Q6(c) – Uses of aluminium based on its properties. |
Lesson 2: Uses of Copper
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Describe the use of copper in electrical wiring in terms of its good electrical conductivity and ductility. |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Show a piece of copper wire and ask: “Why is copper commonly used for electrical wiring?”- Main (25 mins): 1. Discuss copper’s high electrical conductivity, which allows efficient energy transfer with minimal energy loss. 2. Explain copper’s ductility, making it easy to draw into thin wires without breaking. 3. Provide examples of copper usage in household wiring and electronics. 4. Highlight the role of copper in reducing energy waste in electrical systems.- Plenary (10 mins): Students write a short explanation linking copper’s properties to its use in electrical wiring. |
| Resources | Samples of copper wire, electrical cables, worksheets. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Research and write about one additional use of copper in industry, explaining the physical property that makes it suitable. |
| Assessment | Worksheet: Identify properties of copper that make it ideal for electrical wiring. |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/O/N/21 Q6(b) – Properties and uses of copper in electrical wiring. |
Lesson 3: Comparing Aluminium and Copper Uses
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Compare the uses of aluminium and copper in terms of their physical properties. |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Ask: “If you were designing an electrical cable, which metal would you choose: aluminium or copper? Why?”- Main (25 mins): 1. Discuss the advantages of aluminium (lightweight, resistant to corrosion) and copper (better conductivity, more ductile). 2. Compare their applications: overhead cables (aluminium) vs household wiring (copper). 3. Discuss cost considerations (aluminium is cheaper) and practical implications.- Plenary (10 mins): Students create a Venn diagram comparing aluminium and copper in terms of uses and properties. |
| Resources | Comparison charts, samples of aluminium and copper wires, worksheets. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Write a short report on which metal is more suitable for electrical applications and why. |
| Assessment | Worksheet: Compare the properties and uses of aluminium and copper, providing examples. |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/M/J/19 Q6(c) – Comparison of aluminium and copper uses. |
Key Notes for Students:
- Aluminium:
- Low density: Ideal for aircraft and overhead cables.
- Good electrical conductivity: Used in electrical cables.
- Resistance to corrosion: Suitable for food containers.
- Copper:
- Excellent electrical conductivity: Reduces energy loss in wiring.
- Ductility: Easily drawn into wires for electrical systems.
- Comparison:
- Aluminium is lighter and cheaper but less conductive than copper.
- Copper is better for applications requiring maximum conductivity and flexibility.
Notes for Teachers:
- Use real-life examples and practical applications to engage students.
- Provide hands-on materials (e.g., wires, containers) for better visualization of concepts.
- Emphasize the relationship between the physical properties of metals and their industrial uses.
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