English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Describe why the new evidence from the scattering experiment led to a change in the atomic model
Describe how and why the atomic model has changed over time
Evaluate scientific models critically, considering their strengths and weaknesses
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Words and meanings to learn
sphere
a 3D object shaped like a ball
dense
having parts that are closely packed together
nucleus
the central core of an atom made up of protons and neutrons
alpha particle
a type of ionising radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons
charge
a property of matter that determines how it interacts with electric fields; particles can have a positive, negative or neutral charge
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.
Development of the atom - Handout
Rutherford scattering - Handout
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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