English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Identify the main stages in a product’s life cycle (from making it to disposing of it)
Explain why life cycle assessments are not always completely fair or accurate
Compare the environmental impact of different products, like plastic and paper bags
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Words and meanings to learn
life cycle assessment
a full study that looks at all the environmental harm caused by a product at every step, from digging up the raw materials to when the product is disposed of
manufacture
the stage where raw materials are processed into a finished product, using energy and water, and creating waste in a factory
distribution
the stage where the product is transported from the factory to the customer, leading to fuel emissions and the use of materials for packaging
disposal
the final stage where the product is discarded, either being sent to landfill (releasing methane) or being processed for recycling or reuse
circular economy
a new way of thinking about products that aims to keep materials in use for as long as possible by making things that can be easily repaired, re-used and fully recycled
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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.
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