English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
State the 3 types of nuclear radiation.
Rank the range and ionising ability of the 3 different types of radiation.
Describe the penetration power of the 3 types of radiation.
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Words and meanings to learn
penetrating power
The ability of a type of radiation to pass through materials.
alpha radiation
consists of alpha particles, which are made up of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (the same as a helium nucleus)
beta radiation
Beta radiation consists of beta particles, which are fast-moving, high-energy electrons
ionising power
the ability of radiation to knock electrons out of atoms, turning them into ions.
gamma radiation
Gamma radiation is a type of electromagnetic wave with no mass and no charge
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.
Geiger-Müller Counter (Geiger Counter):
How it works: This device is used in class demonstrations to measure radiation from different sources. When brought near a radioactive source, the Geiger counter produces clicks or a visual display representing radiation levels.
Application: This model can show the different penetration abilities of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation:
Place paper over a source to stop alpha radiation.
Use aluminium to stop beta radiation.
Demonstrate that gamma radiation requires thicker shielding, such as lead
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