English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Define and understand the concept of elastic potential energy
Apply the formula Ee = 0.5ke2 to calculate elastic potential energy
Recognise the limitations of the formula, specifically the limit of proportionality
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Words and meanings to learn
extension
the increase in length of a spring or elastic material when a force is applied to it
limit of proportionality
is the maximum point at which a material, such as a spring, follows Hooke’s Law, meaning that its extension is directly proportional to the applied force
spring constant
amount of force needed to extend or compress a spring by a certain distance
elastic potential energy
is the energy stored in an elastic object, like a spring, when it is stretched or compressed within its elastic limit
compression
refers to the reduction in length of a spring or elastic material when a force is applied to it in the opposite direction (pushing instead of pulling)
Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.
Samantha has written the complete KS4 Science curriculum, fully aligned with the AQA GCSE Science: Trilogy specification. Covering biology, chemistry and physics, the curriculum is carefully sequenced so that students build knowledge cumulatively and see clear connections between concepts across the three sciences. Drawing on her experience as an examiner and on research into effective teaching, she has designed it to embed retrieval practice, clear explanation, worked examples and the required practicals throughout, preparing students for the demands of the GCSE exams. Grounded in the realities of the classroom, the curriculum is rigorous for students and manageable for busy teachers.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket.
Springs of various spring constants and weights of different mass for applying force to springs.
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