Topic A1: Structure of Matter & Atomic Theory
Learn key vocabulary related to matter, atoms, and subatomic structure. Vocabulary support emphasizes morphology, examples, and non-examples.
Select a vocabulary word to view definitions, examples, non-examples, and word-part support.
Matter
Acceptable: Anything that has mass and takes up space.
Ideal: Matter is any substance that has mass and occupies space, and is made up of particles such as atoms and molecules.
Word parts:
Root mater: matter or substance
The root 'mater' refers to physical substance. This helps students distinguish matter from energy or forces.
Examples:
- A rock
- Air inside a balloon
- Water in a glass
Non-examples:
- Light
- Heat
- Sound
Related: material, matter-based, immaterial
Misconceptions:
- Students often think gases are not matter because they cannot be seen.
- Students may believe energy is matter because it can cause change.
Teacher note:
Reinforce that gases count as matter. When marking, accept responses that include 'takes up space' even if mass is not explicitly mentioned at first.