Naming Compounds & Salts, OCR A-Level Chemistry, M2

This comprehensive OCR A Level Chemistry PowerPoint lesson teaches students how to name ionic compounds and salts using systematic naming conventions, worked examples and practice activities.

Designed for OCR Chemistry A (H032/H432), Module 2: Foundations in Chemistry, this resource supports specification point 2.1.2(a) – Compounds, Formulae and Equations. It is ideal for Year 12 students developing their understanding of chemical nomenclature and the relationship between compound names and chemical formulae.

The lesson introduces the systematic naming of ionic compounds, explaining how positive and negative ions determine the name of a compound. Students learn to name binary ionic compounds using the -ide naming convention, recognising common examples such as sodium chloride, magnesium oxide and aluminium nitride. A binary compound is defined as a substance containing two different elements.

The PowerPoint progresses to naming compounds containing polyatomic ions, including nitrate, sulfate, carbonate, hydroxide and ammonium. Particular attention is given to distinguishing between similar names, such as nitride and nitrate or sulfide and sulfate, and understanding how these endings identify different ions. Students also practise naming salts and compounds containing metals with variable charges using Roman numerals.

Throughout the lesson, clear explanations, worked examples and structured activities help students develop confidence in translating between chemical names and formulae. The resource includes a starter activity, key terminology, practice questions, knowledge checks and answers to support assessment for learning.

Supplied as an editable PowerPoint presentation (.pptx), this resource is suitable for classroom teaching, independent practice, revision and consolidation of chemical naming skills.

Last updated: November 2026.