KS3 & KS4 science curriculum

This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Introduction to states of matter and changing states, where they explored how solids, liquids, and gases change when heated or cooled. It develops their understanding of the particle model, focusing on how particles behave and interact during changes of state, including gas pressure and motion. This positions pupils to deepen their knowledge in the next unit, Solutions, where they will apply these concepts to understand the behaviour of mixtures and how they can be separated, further reinforcing the thread of substance interactions.

1. Solid and liquid states
2. Melting: particle model
3. Bunsen burners
4. Melting: melting points and freezing points
5. Particle model of substances in the gas state
6. Boiling and condensing
7. Changes of state: energy and evaporation

• Materials can be grouped as solids, liquids or gases.
• Solids hold their shape.
• Liquids form a pool not a pile.
• Gases can escape from an unsealed container.
• Some materials change state when they are heated or cooled.
• Water can evaporate into a gas.
• Water evaporates more quickly when the temperature is higher.
• Water vapour can condense into water.