Year 8 · Science · beta

Atoms, elements and compounds

This unit explores the basic atomic model, the differences between atoms, elements, and compounds, and the varying physical and chemical properties of elements. It covers chemical symbols, formulae, SI units, and IUPAC nomenclature, emphasising their use in describing elements and compounds.

This is an attributed Oak National Academy lesson sequence, not a completed or academically approved DASKEREL course. Supporting transcripts may depend on video, images, practical equipment or teacher explanation. Follow each lesson’s supervision guidance. For religious education and RSHE, follow the school’s syllabus, policy and safeguarding procedures.

Prior knowledge

  • A pure substance is made of only one type of particle.
  • A pure substance has a fixed melting point and boiling point.
  • Impurities change the melting and boiling point of a substance.
  • Mass of substances that are mixed adds to give the total mass of the mixture (mass is conserved).
  • Mass is measured with a balance in grams.

Source curriculum references

  • Understand and use SI units and IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) chemical nomenclature
  • A simple (Dalton) atomic model
  • Differences between atoms, elements and compounds
  • Chemical symbols and formulae for elements and compounds
  • The varying physical and chemical properties of different elements

Oak source metadata. DASKEREL has not independently verified school-level coverage.

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