English National Curriculum - Science

Diffusion

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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Keywords

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

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

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.

Underpinning this is a strong foundation in applied science built across a range of industry roles. Samantha has held scientific roles at John Smith's Brewery, Yorkshire Water and WasteCare, where she led technical projects, drove operational efficiencies and ensured compliance with industry standards. Across these roles she has first-hand experience of how scientific knowledge translates into measurable outcomes in professional and commercial environments.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

Required Resources

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

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