English National Curriculum - Science

Infrared radiation & required practical

Mission Objectives

State what is meant by infrared and what infrared photos can tell us

Recognise that different coloured surfaces will emit different amounts of radiation

Explain how thermal imaging technology is used in real-world applications

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Rocket Words Quiz

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Word Search Game

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

absorption

the process by which an object takes in energy from infrared radiation, causing its temperature to increase

infrared radiation

a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by all objects, often referred to as heat or thermal radiation, which can travel through a vacuum and does not require particles to transfer energy

reflection

the process by which infrared radiation bounces off the surface of an object, preventing it from being absorbed

surface properties

the characteristics of a material's surface (e.g., colour, texture) that determine how effectively it emits, absorbs or reflects infrared radiation (e.g., black surfaces absorb well, shiny surfaces reflect well)

emission

the process by which objects release energy in the form of infrared radiation

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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. 

Required Resources

Leslie cube
Kettle
Heatproof mat
Thermometers
Infrared thermometer
Test tubes

Different types of materials: white matte, silver shiny, black matte

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