Three types of chemical reaction
I can use chemical equations to identify and describe oxidation, decomposition and precipitation reactions.
Three types of chemical reaction
I can use chemical equations to identify and describe oxidation, decomposition and precipitation reactions.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- In a chemical reaction the + symbol can be read as ‘and’ and the arrow as ‘changes into’.
- In an oxidation reaction a reactant combines with oxygen.
- In a decomposition reaction a reactant splits into two or more new substances.
- In a precipitation reaction an insoluble salt is formed.
Keywords
Chemical equation - A chemical equation describes a reaction, indicating the reactants and products.
Oxidation - Oxidation is a type of reaction in which oxygen bonds to elements of the reactants.
Decomposition - Decomposition is a type of reaction in which a reactant compound breaks down into two or more products.
Precipitation - A reaction in which an insoluble salt forms from two solutions is called a precipitation reaction.
Common misconception
Pupils *very* easily confuse different types of reactions.
Spend time developing ways to help pupils remember the differences and regularly challenge them to explain why one reaction is the type it is.
To help you plan your year 10 chemistry lesson on: Three types of chemical reaction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 chemistry lesson on: Three types of chemical reaction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 chemistry lessons from the Calculations involving masses unit, dive into the full secondary chemistry curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.