This lesson is designed for the NEW AQA Physics GCSE, particularly the ‘Radioactivity’ SoW.
 
This lesson begins with a recap on background radiation, students need to create a mind map in their books of the different source of background radiation. Once this task is complete students can mark their work against the answers provided. This is followed by a task whereby students will complete a worksheet about background radiation, the mark scheme for this task is included so students can self-assess their own work.
 
Next, pupils will need to recap their knowledge of the dangers of alpha, beta and gamma radiation. Students will need to copy and complete a table which summarises the dangers of these three types of radiation, inside and outside the body. Students can self-assess this task once it has been completed, using the mark scheme provided.
 
The next part of the lesson focuses on radioactive waste, firstly students are given some information about the type of waste that is produced by a nuclear power plant. Students will then watch a video on the topic, during which they will need to answer a set of questions.
 
This work can be marked and corrected using the answers provided.
Students are now shown information about Chernobyl and Fukishima, two videos on the topics help to demonstrate the ideas written on the PowerPoint presentation. This is followed by some details of designs for new nuclear reactors which will be built in the next 20 years, students need to understand the advances made in safety and design for third-generation nuclear reactors.
 
Lastly, pupils will complete a set of exam-style questions on radioactivity. This work can be self-assessed using the mark scheme provided.
 
The plenary requires pupils to come up with questions for a set of answers that are provided on the PowerPoint.