States of matter
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Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Solid, liquid, gas states and changes of state, where they explored the behaviour of particles in different states and how substances transition between these states. It deepens their understanding by examining the properties of states of matter and the conditions that affect these changes. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Separating substances, where they will apply this knowledge to explore methods of separating mixtures based on physical properties, reinforcing the understanding of matter’s behaviour and interactions.
Prior knowledge requirements
- There are three states of matter: solid, liquid and gas
- Changes of state can be achieved by heating or cooling
- Solids, liquids and gases have different properties
- Only gases can be compressed, so gases can have different pressures
- Fluids fill the container they’re in
- Fluids can be poured (they can flow)
- The particle model shows how solids, liquids and gases are organised together
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Solid, liquid, gas states and changes of state, where they explored the behaviour of particles in different states and how substances transition between these states. It deepens their understanding by examining the properties of states of matter and the conditions that affect these changes. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Separating substances, where they will apply this knowledge to explore methods of separating mixtures based on physical properties, reinforcing the understanding of matter’s behaviour and interactions.
Prior knowledge requirements
- There are three states of matter: solid, liquid and gas
- Changes of state can be achieved by heating or cooling
- Solids, liquids and gases have different properties
- Only gases can be compressed, so gases can have different pressures
- Fluids fill the container they’re in
- Fluids can be poured (they can flow)
- The particle model shows how solids, liquids and gases are organised together
Chemistry
States of matter
This unit covers the particle model, states of matter, and changes between them, distinguishing physical from chemical changes. It explains the concept of purity in scientific terms, using melting point data to identify pure and impure substances, and explores the limitations of the particle model.
7 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the States of matter unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our OCR secondary chemistry curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for OCR secondary chemistry programmes.