LuduminaPM-01 · PM-U1 · Planned
Density and particle arrangements
Learning objectives
Calculate density and explain state differences using arrangements/separations without changing particle size.
8463 §§4.3.1.1 / 8464 §§6.3.1.1
DfE single-science pp.42–43 / Combined pp.35. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS1.2,4.5; MS3b,3c,5c.
Needs firstP0
Explanation
Density compares mass with occupied volume. State models describe particle arrangements and spacing; changes in bulk density need not mean particles change size. A large object can have low density even if its total mass is high.
Concepts, equations and units: ρ=m/V; kg/m³; mass kg, volume m³; solid/liquid/gas models.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Compare equal-volume solids and equal-mass objects; reveal annotated particle spacing.
Planned learner game exercise
Choose a material for a target mass/volume and classify three particle diagrams.
Independent practice
Three density problems with cm³ conversions and a model limitation explanation.
Original practice example · Shared
A sample has mass 0.20 kg and volume 0.00010 m³. Find density.
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
ρ = m/V = 0.20/0.00010.
Answer
2000 kg/m³.
Exit check and success criteria
Two correct calculations with units and correct three state diagrams.
During practice, compare the prediction with evidence and give an error-specific prompt. The exit item uses a fresh context or fresh values, answered independently.
Misconceptions, practical links and mastery
Check these misconceptions
Particles expand when material expands; denser always means larger particles; density and mass are identical.
Practical preparation
Preparation for RP-P5/RP-C17, AT1.
Virtual preparation and revision only. Required hands-on activities and school records remain separate.
Proposed mastery
0: not yet evidenced. 1: supported. 2: independent exit criteria met. 3: successful changed-context transfer. Advance at 2; revisit with fresh retrieval. These are not GCSE grades.