English National Curriculum - Science

Development of the atom

Mission Objectives

Describe why the new evidence from the scattering experiment led to a change in the atomic model

Describe how and why the atomic model has changed over time

Evaluate scientific models critically, considering their strengths and weaknesses

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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

sphere

a 3D object shaped like a ball

dense

having parts that are closely packed together

nucleus

the central core of an atom made up of protons and neutrons

alpha particle

a type of ionising radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons

charge

a property of matter that determines how it interacts with electric fields; particles can have a positive, negative or neutral charge

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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

Development of the atom - Handout

Rutherford scattering - Handout

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