Atomic structure and the periodic table
Downloads can take a few minutes, especially for larger files or slower connections.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Atoms, elements and compounds, where they explored the basic building blocks of matter and how elements combine to form compounds. It deepens their understanding by examining atomic structure and how it determines the arrangement of elements in the periodic table. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Structure and bonding, where they will apply their knowledge to explore different types of chemical bonds and how atomic structure influences material properties, reinforcing the connection between atomic theory and chemical behaviour.
Prior knowledge requirements
- All matter is made up of atoms.
- Each element is made up of just one sort of atom.
- Each element is made of a different type of atom.
- Each element has a chemical symbol of which the first letter is always a capital.
- Group 0 elements are called noble gases and do not react.
- The elements in Group 1 are all soft metals that float on water.
- Group 1 metals get more reactive as you go down the group.
- As you go down Group 7, the state of the elements at room temperature change from gas to solid.
- Group 7 elements get less reactive as you go down the group.
- The transition metals in the middle of the periodic table are not very reactive.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Atoms, elements and compounds, where they explored the basic building blocks of matter and how elements combine to form compounds. It deepens their understanding by examining atomic structure and how it determines the arrangement of elements in the periodic table. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Structure and bonding, where they will apply their knowledge to explore different types of chemical bonds and how atomic structure influences material properties, reinforcing the connection between atomic theory and chemical behaviour.
Prior knowledge requirements
- All matter is made up of atoms.
- Each element is made up of just one sort of atom.
- Each element is made of a different type of atom.
- Each element has a chemical symbol of which the first letter is always a capital.
- Group 0 elements are called noble gases and do not react.
- The elements in Group 1 are all soft metals that float on water.
- Group 1 metals get more reactive as you go down the group.
- As you go down Group 7, the state of the elements at room temperature change from gas to solid.
- Group 7 elements get less reactive as you go down the group.
- The transition metals in the middle of the periodic table are not very reactive.
Chemistry
Atomic structure and the periodic table
This unit covers the atomic model, relative atomic mass, isotopes, and the structure of the modern periodic table. It explains how atomic structure influences element positioning, properties, and reactivity. The focus is on identifying trends and using models to develop scientific explanations.
8 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the Atomic structure and the periodic table unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our Edexcel secondary combined science curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for Edexcel secondary combined science programmes.