English National Curriculum - Science

Atoms, elements and compounds

Mission Objectives

Use the names and symbols of elements

Identify the smallest part of an element

Describe how compounds are formed from elements through chemical reactions

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Rocket Words Quiz

Rocket Words Quiz

See if you know all the meanings of the rocket words

Assessment Quiz

Assessment Quiz

Test your knowledge of this lesson

Word Search Game

Word Search Game

Find all the rocket words in the grid

Lesson Resources

Lesson Plan

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

chemical symbol

a one or two-letter abbreviation used to represent an element

reaction

a process in which one or more substances (reactants) are chemically changed into new substances (products)

element

a pure substance made up of only one type of atom

atom

basic building block of matter; it is the smallest part of an element that can exist

compound

a substance made up of two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together

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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

Cartoon elements - handout

Mendeleev and the elements - handout

Elements & compounds - handout

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