English National Curriculum - Science

Exothermic and Endothermic Reactions

Mission Objectives

Define exothermic and endothermic reactions

Describe examples of endothermic and exothermic reactions

Investigate energy changes in chemical reactions

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

endothermic

a reaction that takes in energy from the surroundings, so the temperature of the surroundings goes down

chemical energy

the stored energy in the bonds of chemical substances, which can be released or absorbed during a chemical reaction

temperature

a measure of how hot or cold something is, which shows the average kinetic energy of the particles

surroundings

everything outside the reacting chemicals that can gain or lose energy

exothermic

a reaction that gives out energy to the surroundings, usually as heat, so the temperature of the surroundings goes up

This lesson has been written by

Sarah Mintey MBE

Sarah is a former headteacher and charity CEO who founded Developing Experts in October 2015 with the goal to create a fit-for-purpose curriculum for schools. The company has created a science curriculum for children ages 4-16 which is delivered through sequenced lessons mapped against the National Curriculum in biology, chemistry, and physics. Developing Expert's innovative approach to learning has already been road-tested and voted 'best EdTech product in Europe', winning Tech Nation’s Rising Stars earlier in 2019 and a place on Google for Startups Immersion program 2020. In 2022 Developing Experts won the BETT Awards for Best Classroom Resource - Teaching Aid. Sarah is a 'LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leader' 2022. In October 2022 Developing Experts joined Tech Nation's Upscale 8.0 programme.

Sarah is delighted to be working with over 6500 UK schools and clients such as the Royal Horticulture Society, Network Rail, Rolls Royce, BEIS, National Nuclear Labs, Anglian Water and the Ministry of Defence.

Sarah was awarded an MBE for her services to tech and education in 2020. 

Samantha Batch

Samantha is a dedicated and accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience in the field, coupled with a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven track record of strategically managing educational departments, driving operational efficiencies, and nurturing collaborative relationships with stakeholders. 

Samantha previously served as the Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor, Ilkley Grammar School, Ilkley with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 teaching experience and leadership. In addition to her teaching and leadership roles, she is also an examiner for AQA, providing her with valuable insight into assessment standards and exam specifications.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket, where she's enthusiastically honing her skills both on and off the pitch!

Required Resources

Teacher demo:

Demo of Handwarmers (single use and reusable)

Magnesium ribbon + HCl

Burning magnesium - need tongs

Main practical:

citric acid, sodium hydrogen carbonate, dilute sulfuric acid, distilled water, ammonium chloride, zinc powder, copper sulfate, magnesium ribbon, dilute hydrochloric acid
Polystyrene cups and beakers to stand them in, thermometers, spatulas

Handouts

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