Strengthening Teaching and Learning of Particle Theory, Secondary National Strategy

This study guide, from the Department for Education, is part of a suite designed to support the development of aspects of subject knowledge. It has been designed to link with the Progression Maps, the Revised Framework for teaching Secondary Science and Assessing Pupils’ Progress in Science.

Context
All teachers recognise that some parts of science can be difficult to teach and this can be even more problematic if it is outside your area of expertise. The study guide offers background information and practical suggestions to support classroom practice when teaching about particle theory. All the strategies suggested have been tried and tested by teachers and draw upon academic research. Similarly, many of the activities could be used with students who need to develop similar knowledge.

Development
Study guides were developed as part of a series of publications which could be used flexibly. In particular, they can be used in a school by an individual teacher, a pair of teachers or a larger group without specialist support. If used collaboratively, a peer coaching model would be effective to support its use. This study guide contains materials which address different aspects of teaching particle theory. As a consequence, there is no simple, sequential route through the materials; it is more a collection of ideas and resources to tackle separate issues within the teaching of particles.

Components
This study guide was originally produced as eight separate files. The separate files have been joined together for ease of download. The eight documents were entitled, ‘Strengthening teaching and learning of particles’:
• Introductory section
• Developing an understanding of particle theory
• Using particle models to explain phenomena
• Using particle theory to improve the understanding of properties of elements and compounds
• Using particle models to understand digestion and absorption
• Changing evidence and ideas about particles
• The formation of compounds and chemical reactions
• Answers to some of the questions