Subject: chemistry
Key stage: ks4
Year: year-10
Description: This unit covers the atomic model, relative atomic mass, isotopes, and the structure of the modern periodic table. It explains how atomic structure influences element positioning, properties, and reactivity. The focus is on identifying trends and using models to develop scientific explanations.
Why this, why now: This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Atoms, elements and compounds, where they explored the basic building blocks of matter and how elements combine to form compounds. It deepens their understanding by examining atomic structure and how it determines the arrangement of elements in the periodic table. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Structure and bonding, where they will apply their knowledge to explore different types of chemical bonds and how atomic structure influences material properties, reinforcing the connection between atomic theory and chemical behaviour.
Prior knowledge requirements: All matter is made up of atoms. Each element is made up of just one sort of atom. Each element is made of a different type of atom. Each element has a chemical symbol of which the first letter is always a capital. Group 0 elements are called noble gases and do not react. The elements in Group 1 are all soft metals that float on water. Group 1 metals get more reactive as you go down the group. As you go down Group 7, the state of the elements at room temperature change from gas to solid. Group 7 elements get less reactive as you go down the group. The transition metals in the middle of the periodic table are not very reactive.
National curriculum content: Using a variety of concepts and models to develop scientific explanations and understanding Presenting observations and other data using appropriate methods Interpreting observations and other data, including identifying patterns and trends, making inferences and drawing conclusions A simple model of the atom consisting of the nucleus and electrons, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes The modern Periodic Table, showing elements arranged in order of atomic number Position of elements in the Periodic Table in relation to their atomic structure and arrangement of outer electrons Properties and trends in properties of elements in the same group Characteristic properties of metals and non-metals Chemical reactivity of elements in relation to their position in the Periodic Table
Unit lessons: