5.10 Using resources

Unit Summary

This unit aligns with the AQA GCSE Trilogy specification and develops students’ understanding of how industries use the Earth’s natural resources to manufacture useful products, and why sustainable practices are essential for protecting society and the environment. It builds on prior learning about finite and renewable resources, chemical reactions, energy transfers and environmental chemistry.

Students explore the difference between finite and renewable resources, examining how the extraction and processing of raw materials such as crude oil, metal ores and water affect ecosystems, energy consumption and waste production. They investigate why industrial processes require significant energy inputs and generate environmental impacts, and how chemists work to minimise resource use, reduce energy demand and limit pollution through sustainable development and green chemistry principles.

The unit develops students’ understanding of life-cycle assessment (LCA), enabling them to evaluate how products are manufactured, used and disposed of. Learners consider how materials and stored energy can be recovered, reused or recycled, and assess the trade-offs involved in sustainability decisions using quantitative evidence. Through the analysis of graphs, data tables and real-world case studies, students strengthen their disciplinary knowledge and evaluative skills.

Environmental impact is explored in depth, including the effects of pollution, waste disposal and changing land use on natural cycles such as the carbon and water cycles. Students consider the role of environmental chemists in monitoring pollution, analysing data and designing processes that reduce emissions and ecological damage.

To support ongoing assessment and deep learning, a range of Assessment for Learning (AFL) strategies are embedded within each lesson. These include retrieval practice, formative questioning and structured activities designed to reinforce key concepts, address misconceptions and promote long-term retention of knowledge.

Developing Experts is committed to supporting schools in delivering the National Curriculum effectively. While this unit is guided by National Curriculum and GCSE specification content, it extends beyond these requirements to promote greater challenge and aspiration. Classroom learning is connected to real-world applications and careers in sustainability, environmental science, chemical engineering and materials innovation, helping students see how chemistry contributes to solving contemporary global challenges.

By the end of the unit, students will be able to evaluate how resources are used, assess environmental impacts using evidence, and explain how chemistry supports the development of a more sustainable future.