Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Introduction to Organic Chemistry: Aromatic Compounds

Objectives

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to provide a solid foundation on aromatic compounds, preparing students for subsequent practical activities. Understanding these skills is crucial for the identification and analysis of compounds in the job market, especially in chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Developing these practical skills will allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real situations, promoting meaningful and applicable learning.

Main Objectives

1. Differentiate aromatic compounds from non-aromatic ones.

2. Use Hückel's rule to verify if a compound is aromatic.

3. Recognize properties of aromatic compounds.

Side Objectives

Introduction

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to provide a solid foundation on aromatic compounds, preparing students for subsequent practical activities. Understanding these skills is crucial for the identification and analysis of compounds in the job market, especially in chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Developing these practical skills will allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real situations, promoting meaningful and applicable learning.

Contextualization

Aromatic compounds are fundamental in organic chemistry and possess a unique structure that provides distinct chemical and physical properties. They are present in various products of our daily life, from medicines to perfumes and plastics. Understanding the chemistry behind these compounds allows not only the manipulation of materials to create new products but also comprehension of their reactions and behaviors in different environments.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Aromatic compounds, such as benzene, are essential in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. For example, benzene is used as a precursor in the production of plastics, resins, synthetic fibers, and rubbers. In pharmaceuticals, aromatic compounds are the basis for the synthesis of many drugs, such as aspirin and paracetamol. Interestingly, many of the compounds that give aromas and flavors to foods and fragrances are also aromatic.

Initial Activity

To start the lesson, show a short video (2-3 minutes) that visually and dynamically explains the concept of aromaticity and Hückel's rule. Then, ask a provocative question: 'Did you know that aromatic compounds are present in your favorite perfume and also in medications we use daily?'

Development

Duration: 80 - 90 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to deepen students' knowledge about aromatic compounds, providing a practical and visual experience that facilitates the understanding of theoretical concepts. The development of these activities will allow students to apply theory in practical situations, promoting active and collaborative learning.

Covered Topics

1. Definition of aromatic and non-aromatic compounds
2. Hückel's rule
3. Properties of aromatic compounds
4. Examples of aromatic compounds in daily life and industry

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on the importance of aromatic compounds in their daily lives. Ask how the presence of these compounds in common products such as perfumes, medicines, and plastics influences their routines. Encourage them to think about the impact of organic chemistry on innovation and the development of new materials that enhance quality of life.

Mini Challenge

Maker Challenge: Building Molecular Models

Students will be divided into groups to construct molecular models of aromatic and non-aromatic compounds using simple materials such as styrofoam balls, toothpicks, and paint. Each group should present the built model and explain the characteristics that define whether the compound is aromatic or not, using Hückel's rule.

Instructions

1. Divide the class into groups of 4-5 students.
2. Distribute the necessary materials (styrofoam balls, toothpicks, paint, etc.) to each group.
3. Ask each group to choose one aromatic compound and one non-aromatic compound to build the molecular models.
4. Encourage students to paint the styrofoam balls to represent different atoms (carbon, hydrogen, etc.).
5. Guide students to use Hückel's rule to verify the aromaticity of the compounds.
6. Request that each group prepare a small presentation (3-5 minutes) to explain their molecular models and the aromaticity characteristics observed.

Objective: Develop practical skills in building molecular models, apply Hückel's rule to identify aromatic compounds, and encourage teamwork and communication.

Duration: 30 - 40 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. Differentiate aromatic compounds from non-aromatic ones based on the following chemical structures: benzene, cyclohexane, naphthalene, cyclopentadiene.
2. Use Hückel's rule to determine if pyrrole and furan are aromatic compounds.
3. List three chemical and physical properties of aromatic compounds and explain why these properties are important in the chemical industry.
4. Research and describe the use of an aromatic compound in the pharmaceutical industry and its impact on health.

Conclusion

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to consolidate learning, promote reflection and discussion on the importance of aromatic compounds and their practical applications. By recapping the main contents and connecting theory to practice, students will better internalize the knowledge acquired and recognize its relevance in the job market and daily life.

Discussion

Promote a discussion about the relevance of aromatic compounds, asking students to share their reflections on the topic, the maker challenge, and the fixation exercises. Ask students how understanding aromatic compounds can be applied in different contexts of industry and daily life. Encourage them to discuss specific examples of aromatic compounds and their practical applications, highlighting the connection between theory and the practical activities carried out during the lesson.

Summary

Summarize the main content covered in the lesson, emphasizing the definition of aromatic and non-aromatic compounds, Hückel's rule, and the properties of aromatic compounds. Recall the examples of aromatic compounds presented and their applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Highlight how the construction of molecular models and the application of Hückel's rule helped students understand these concepts better.

Closing

Explain how the lesson connected theory to practice and applications in the job market. Reinforce the importance of aromatic compounds in everyday products, such as perfumes and medicines, and how the knowledge gained can be applied in real situations. Conclude the lesson by highlighting the relevance of organic chemistry for innovation and the development of new materials, encouraging students to continue exploring this fascinating field.