English National Curriculum - Science

Osmosis – Theory

Mission Objectives

Define osmosis using key scientific terminology

Recognise and interpret diagrams that model osmosis

Predict and explain the effect of osmosis on plant and animal cells in different solutions

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

osmosis

The movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of low concentration to high concentration.

concentration

The amount of a substance in a given volume of solution, usually expressed in terms of mass per unit volume.

membrane

A selective barrier that allows certain substances to pass while blocking others, crucial in osmosis.

diffusion

The process where particles spread from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

turgor pressure

The pressure exerted by water inside the central vacuole of a plant cell against the cell wall.

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

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. 

Required Resources

PowerPoint or diagrams of osmosis in plant and animal cells

Particle model cut-outs or whiteboard versions

Worksheet with osmosis diagrams to label and annotate

Short animation or video on osmosis

Exit tickets or mini whiteboards

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