I show the group this example of properties and uses of iron, then i give them an element each and they have to produce an A4 poster with properties and uses. This is easy to differentiate for low and high ability by choice of element - done using internet.

i start the lesson with a wham bottle demo (for extra entertainment tell pupils they need to look and listen carefully because the reaction can be hard to notice). I demo the citric acid prac in a balloon, so they can all feel how cold it gets.

First I do a starter activity about risks and hazards of practical work. I use this as an assessed practical skills lesson. Allow pupils to do practical with as little help as possible and then give feed back on their technique.

This PowerPoint is used to start discussion about how ring species are formed. It is short, but contains 2 examples, including photos, to help with explanations. I usually do the explanation and then get pupils to write their own description of how they form - this work can then be quality marked.

a test comparing polyamides and polyesters

2 question test - questions on free rad sub and electrophilic addition, followed by mass spec analysis. There is also an improvement sheet for students to fill in QUALITY MARKING OPPORTUNITY

general ppts on amines - leads onto synthesis routes (steam distillation etc)

i use this check list to quality mark practical write ups - saves loads of time

can be used as end of topic test

Goes through what is required on edexcel a2 specification. Looks at ways of adding and removing carbon atoms.

expert group task on diamond, graphite and bucky balls. Instructions for how to use on ppt.

Students need to know their AS reactions before analysing mass spectra.

a run though of ester reactions and a transesterifification short essay task with guidance

looks at calcium compounds and reactions

looks at Lamark and Darwin and survival of the fittest. This lesson always gets very chatty, which is why not too much on ppt. Good with practical picking up peas with fingers or tweezers.

Looks at the difference between animals and plant and the fact that sometimes it isnt straight forward. There is a nice plenary task.

Aims: Know some of the uses of the different types of chromatography; Be able to analysis a chromatogram.

Which element am I? taboo game - tests understanding of atomic structure. Good for starter or plenary.

Expert groups lesson to research reactions and feed back in groups. Good to lead up to past paper question. Please comment and rate if you use.

fingerprint spectra - used as basis of discussion