Understand that atoms are the basic building blocks of matter
Atoms are the smallest units of matter that retain the properties of an element. They combine to form molecules and compounds, making up everything around us—from air to water to living things.
Define an element
An element is a pure substance made of only one type of atom. It can’t be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
Describe the properties of metals and non-metals
Metals are shiny, good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile.
Non-metals are dull, poor conductors, brittle, and often exist as gases or solids at room temperature.
Measure and calculate the volume of metals
To measure the volume of a metal, use a ruler for regular shapes and apply a formula like length × width × height. For irregular shapes, use water displacement: submerge the metal in water and measure how much the water level rises—that change equals the volume.
Calculate the density of metals
Density = mass ÷ volume.
Measure mass with a scale, volume with a ruler or water displacement, then divide.
Outline how the idea of atoms has developed as knowledge of the nature of matter has improved
The idea of atoms began with ancient Greek philosophers who believed matter was made of tiny, indivisible particles. In the 1800s, Dalton proposed atoms as solid spheres. Later, scientists discovered subatomic particles—electrons, protons, and neutrons—showing atoms have internal structure. Quantum theory then revealed atoms have energy levels and behave in complex ways.
Understand the purpose of using models to represent scientific ideas
Models help scientists explain, visualize, and test ideas that are too small, large, or complex to observe directly—like atoms, solar systems, or chemical reactions. They make abstract concepts easier to understand.
Describe the properties and uses of carbon in various forms
Carbon exists in different forms with unique properties:
- Diamond: Hard, transparent, excellent insulator; used in cutting tools and jewelry.
- Graphite: Soft, slippery, conducts electricity; used in pencils and batteries.
- Charcoal: Porous, black, burns easily; used for fuel and filtration.
- Carbon nanotubes/graphene: Strong, light, great conductors; used in electronics and advanced materials.
Name the first 20 elements of the periodic table
Hydrogen (H)
Helium (He)
Lithium (Li)
Beryllium (Be)
Boron (B)
Carbon (C)
Nitrogen (N)
Oxygen (O)
Fluorine (F)
Neon (Ne)
Sodium (Na)
Magnesium (Mg)
Aluminium (Al)
Silicon (Si)
Phosphorus (P)
Sulfur (S)
Chlorine (Cl)
Argon (Ar)
Potassium (K)
Calcium (Ca)
Recognise that elements can be represented by chemical symbols
Each element is shown by a unique chemical symbol, usually one or two letters—like H for hydrogen or O for oxygen. These symbols make it easy to write chemical formulas and equations.
Locate elements on the periodic table
Elements are arranged on the periodic table by atomic number, increasing from left to right.
- Groups (columns) show elements with similar properties.
- Periods (rows) show elements with increasing atomic number and changing properties.
You can find metals on the left, non-metals on the right, and metalloids in between.
Examine the properties of monatomic elements, molecular elements and crystal lattices
Monatomic elements consist of single atoms (e.g. helium); they are usually gases and chemically stable.
Molecular elements are made of two or more atoms bonded together (e.g. oxygen, O₂); they share electrons and form distinct molecules.
Crystal lattices are solid structures with atoms arranged in repeating patterns (e.g. sodium chloride); they are rigid, strong, and have high melting points.
Classify elements as existing in monatomic, lattice or molecular form
Elements can exist in different forms:
- Monatomic: Single atoms, like noble gases (e.g. helium, neon).
- Molecular: Two or more atoms bonded, like oxygen (O₂) or nitrogen (N₂).
- Lattice: Atoms arranged in a repeating structure, like metals (e.g. iron) or non-metal solids (e.g. silicon).
Define compounds
Compounds are substances made of two or more different elements chemically bonded together. They have properties different from the elements they’re made of.
Describe compounds by symbols and formulas
Compounds are shown using chemical formulas that combine element symbols and numbers. For example, H₂O represents water—two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom bonded together.
Model the arrangement of particles in compounds
In compounds, particles (atoms) are chemically bonded in fixed ratios and arranged in specific structures—either as molecules (like H₂O) or crystal lattices (like NaCl). These arrangements determine the compound’s properties.
Model the arrangement of particles in compounds
In compounds, particles are arranged as molecules or crystal lattices, with atoms bonded in fixed ratios and patterns.
Define mixtures
Mixtures are combinations of two or more substances that are physically combined, not chemically bonded. Each part keeps its own properties.
Contrast between an element, compound and mixture
- Element: Made of one type of atom (e.g. oxygen).
- Compound: Made of two or more different atoms chemically bonded (e.g. water).
- Mixture: Two or more substances physically combined, not bonded (e.g. air).
Describe an alloy and its properties
An alloy is a mixture of metals, or a metal combined with another element, made to improve strength, durability, or resistance to corrosion. For example, steel (iron + carbon) is stronger than pure iron.
