Use post-16 atomic models to inform 14–16 understanding

In the chemistry classroom we rely on models to describe the structure of atoms. The models used at 11–14, 14–16 and post-16 become increasingly more complex, and misconceptions arising from earlier teaching can hinder students’ understanding at higher levels. Therefore, it’s useful to  allude to the post-16 models when teaching 14–16 students in a bid to minimise the development of misconceptions.