English National Curriculum - Science

Active Transport

Mission Objectives

Define active transport and explain how it differs from diffusion and osmosis

Describe real-life examples of active transport in plants and animals

Compare the three transport processes using key features (direction, concentration gradient, energy)

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

active transport

The movement of particles against a concentration gradient, requiring energy.

diffusion

The net movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration, down the concentration gradient. It is a passive process (no extra energy needed).

osmosis

The diffusion of water from an area of higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration, through a partially permeable membrane.

concentration gradient

the difference in concentration between two areas. The steeper the gradient, the faster the rate of diffusion or osmosis.

mineral ions

a charged particle (ion) of a mineral, such as nitrate, magnesium, or phosphate, that plants absorb from the soil and use for healthy growth

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 or transport process comparison diagrams

Table completion worksheet (diffusion vs osmosis vs active transport)

Video clip or animation of active transport (root hair cells or gut cells)

Coloured arrows for particle model diagrams. Student can draw these on.

Challenge and stretch questions or Venn diagram comparison

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