Lesson Plan
Balancing Basics
Students will learn to balance simple chemical equations by adjusting coefficients to satisfy the Law of Conservation of Mass, successfully balancing 5 one-step equations.
Balancing equations is a foundational chemistry skill required to understand reaction stoichiometry and predict product yields, ensuring students grasp core chemical principles.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
5 minutes
Step 1
Mystery Molecule Introduction
1 minute
Step 2
Direct Instruction
2 minutes
Step 3
Guided Practice
4 minutes
Step 4
Independent Check
2 minutes
Step 5
Wrap-Up and Collection
1 minute
Slide Deck
Mystery Molecule: What’s Wrong?
Key Concept: Conservation of Mass
Example: Balancing H₂ + O₂ → H₂O
Guided Practice (Pairs)
Pair Activity: Detective Challenge
Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways
Worksheet
Answer Key
