English National Curriculum - Science

Cancer

Mission Objectives

Describe cancer as uncontrolled cell growth and division

Describe the difference between benign and malignant tumours

Explain how lifestyle and genetic risk factors affect cancer risk

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

cancer

result of changes in cells that lead to uncontrolled growth and division

benign tumour

a growth of abnormal cells which is contained in one area, usually within a membrane; these tumours do not invade other parts of the body

malignant tumour

cancers that invade neighbouring tissues and spread to different parts of the body in the blood, where they form secondary tumours

carcinogen

chemicals or agents, such as tar in tobacco smoke or asbestos, that cause mutations, leading to the development of cancer

mitosis

the process of cell division; in cancer, this process is "uncontrolled" or "abnormal"

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. 

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