English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Define diffusion and describe how it occurs across cell membranes
Explain the effect of surface area, temperature, and concentration gradient on diffusion rate
Describe adaptations of exchange surfaces in mammals, fish, and plants that maximise the rate of diffusion
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Words and meanings to learn
diffusion
The process by which particles spread from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
particles
Small, minute pieces that make up solids, liquids, and gases.
concentration
The amount of a substance in a given volume, affecting how quickly diffusion occurs.
surface area to volume ratio
A measurement that affects how quickly substances can diffuse into cells.
net-movement
The overall direction that particles move, even though they are all moving randomly
Samantha is an accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience and a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven record of leading departments effectively, improving practice, and working collaboratively with stakeholders.
In her current work, Samantha embeds evidence-informed pedagogical principles such as retrieval practice, clear modelling, and effective sequencing to support high-quality curriculum design and professional development. She draws on assessment insight and common misconceptions to help teachers secure strong student understanding.
She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor at Ilkley Grammar School, with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and exam requirements.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket.
PowerPoint slides and visual aids (particle diagrams, SA:Vol ratio tables)
Agar jelly cubes with sodium hydroxide and phenolphthalein indicator
Beakers of hydrochloric acid
Rulers, stopwatches, scalpels, tweezers
Practical worksheet with pre-filled and blank SA/Vol tables
Adaptation card sort or fact sheet on exchange surfaces (lungs, gills, leaves, intestines)
Differentiated challenge questions for stretch and application
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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