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Fractional distillation

Lesson Plan

1. Starter - Oil derivative - Duration 5 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
This activity introduces the various derivatives of crude oil and considers their various uses.	Understand the varying derivatives of crude oil and their commercial application.	Slides

Teacher Notes: 1. Starter - Oil derivative

2. The chemical properties of each fraction - Duration 10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students work in pairs to brainstorm the physical attributes of each fraction (e.g. viscosity, smell, appearance). The chemical properties of each are also introduced - the temperature at which each boils, the corresponding size of the molecules that make up each one.	Understand the sliding scale of physical attributes (e.g. viscosity, colour). Understand the corresponding link between physical attributes and chemical properties.	Slides Student Worksheet 1

Teacher Notes: 2. The chemical properties of each fraction $Teacher Notes: 2. The chemical properties of each fraction$

3. Fractional distillation - Duration 15 - 25 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Slide show of a fractional distillation column explains the process and its reliance on varied boiling temperature. Students label a fractional distillation column with derivative name, example of usage and molecule size.	Understand the premise of fractional distillation. Be able to label a fractional distillation column. Reinforce the link between boil temperature and molecule size.	Slides Student Worksheet 2

Teacher Notes: 3. Fractional distillation

4. The value of oil - Duration 10-15 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
This activity contextualises the distillation process. Students are introduced to the scale and cost of oil extraction which is presented in the context of its economic value and global importance.	Introduce the economic value of oil and the imperatives that drive consumption.	Slides

Teacher Notes: 4. The value of oil

5. Damage limitation - Duration 10-20 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
This activity applies students' knowledge of fractional distillation to the oil clean-up process after a spill. Considering various means of extraction, students initially brainstorm the potential hazards attached to each. Students brainstorm clean-up methods e.g. skimming and manual cleaning. Images of some of these with an explanation as to why each of these can have only partial effect (different properties of each fraction, wind dispersal etc). Off-shore oil spillage is the most detrimental to the environment; interviews with Alaskan fishery staff explain the impact of a spill. The Torrey Canyon spill and associated RN and RAF bombing is brought to life through images. Classroom discussion as to why this technique was used (i.e. its relevance to the points learned earlier) and why it could not have burned off all of the products.	Consider oil spill clean-up methods. Apply the fractional distillation process to clean-up operations.	Slides

Teacher Notes: 5. Damage limitation

6. Plenary - The future - Duration 10-20 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students work as scientists advising the RN and RAF pilots briefed to bomb the Torrey Canyon.	Applied learning.	None

Teacher Notes: 6. Plenary - The future

7. Homework / independent work - Duration n/a mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students to complete a multiple choice activity.	Recap on key learnings.	Multiple choice quiz: Fractional distillation

Teacher Notes: 7. Homework / independent work

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