What is stuff made of? Matter, atoms and elements | 11-14 years

A 3D rendered model of part of the structure of an atom, showing the nucleus containing protons and neutrons with electrons in orbit around it

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Introduce the properties and behaviour of atoms as the smallest parts of elements and a basic unit of matter using this lesson plan for 11–14 year olds.

In this activity, students watch a simple demonstration and carry out a practical task in small groups to develop their thinking about atoms as a basic unit of matter.

Students will be able to describe that:

Matter is made of atoms too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Atoms are the smallest parts of elements.
An atom retains the property of the element.
Particles can move.

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