Topic: Giant Covalent Structures
Lesson 1: Structures of Graphite, Diamond, and Silicon(IV) Oxide
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Describe the giant covalent structures of graphite, diamond, and silicon(IV) oxide (SiO₂). |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Show 3D models or images of graphite, diamond, and SiO₂ structures. Ask students to identify similarities and differences. – Main (25 mins): 1. Explain the structure of diamond (each carbon atom bonded to 4 others, forming a tetrahedral structure). 2. Discuss the structure of graphite (layers of carbon atoms bonded in hexagonal arrangements with weak forces between layers). 3. Describe the SiO₂ structure as a network of silicon and oxygen atoms forming a 3D framework. – Plenary (10 mins): Students complete a table comparing the structures of the three substances. |
| Resources | 3D models or diagrams, videos/animations of covalent structures, worksheets. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Draw labeled diagrams of the structures of diamond, graphite, and SiO₂, showing bonding clearly. |
| Assessment | Worksheet: Match descriptions to the correct covalent structures (graphite, diamond, SiO₂). |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/M/J/19 Q4(a) – Description of giant covalent structures. |
Lesson 2: Properties and Uses of Graphite and Diamond
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Relate the structures and bonding of graphite and diamond to their uses: (a) graphite as a lubricant and as an electrode, (b) diamond in cutting tools. |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Ask: Why are pencils made of graphite and not diamond? – Main (25 mins): 1. Discuss graphite’s properties (softness due to weak forces between layers, good conductivity due to delocalized electrons) and relate these to its uses as a lubricant and electrode. 2. Explain diamond’s hardness (due to strong covalent bonds in a rigid lattice) and its use in cutting tools. – Plenary (10 mins): Group activity: Students write a paragraph linking the properties of graphite and diamond to their uses. |
| Resources | Physical samples (if available) or images of graphite and diamond, diagrams showing bonding. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Research and write one additional use for graphite and diamond, explaining how their structure supports this use. |
| Assessment | Worksheet: Link the properties of graphite and diamond to their specific uses. |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/O/N/21 Q4(b) – Explaining the uses of graphite and diamond. |
Lesson 3: Similarity Between Diamond and Silicon(IV) Oxide
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Describe the similarity in properties between diamond and silicon(IV) oxide, related to their structures. |
| Activities | – Starter (5 mins): Compare the appearance of diamond and quartz (SiO₂ crystal). Ask: Why might their properties be similar? – Main (25 mins): 1. Explain that both have strong covalent bonds in a 3D network. 2. Highlight similar properties: high melting/boiling points, hardness, and non-conductivity. 3. Use diagrams to show the structural similarity between diamond and SiO₂. – Plenary (10 mins): Students summarize the similarities in a comparison table. |
| Resources | Diagrams of diamond and SiO₂ structures, images or videos of quartz and diamond. |
| Time | 40 minutes total: 5 mins (Starter) + 25 mins (Main) + 10 mins (Plenary). |
| Homework | Write a short paragraph comparing the properties of diamond and SiO₂, referencing their structures. |
| Assessment | Quiz: Describe two similarities between diamond and SiO₂ based on their bonding and structure. |
| Past Paper Practice | IGCSE Chemistry 0620/41/M/J/20 Q4(c) – Comparing diamond and SiO₂ properties. |
Notes for Teachers:
- Use visual aids like 3D models, animations, or diagrams to make the complex structures more comprehensible.
- Relate the abstract properties of materials to real-world applications to maintain student interest.
- Ensure students practice comparing properties and linking them to structures to solidify understanding.
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