English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Define the term activation energy
Identify the advantages of using catalysts in industrial reactions
Explain the effect of using a catalyst on activation energy
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Words and meanings to learn
enzyme
a biological catalyst made of protein; enzymes speed up reactions in living things without being used up
reaction profile
a diagram that shows how the energy of the reactants and products changes during a chemical reaction; it also shows the activation energy
activation energy
the minimum amount of energy that particles need to successfully react when they collide
catalyst
a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up or changed by the reaction; it allows the reaction to happen faster
alternate pathway
a different route that a reaction can take when a catalyst is used; this pathway has a lower activation energy, so the reaction happens more easily
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.
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