Diffusion through a permeable material: practical
I can explain observations of diffusion through jelly cubes (a permeable material).
Diffusion through a permeable material: practical
I can explain observations of diffusion through jelly cubes (a permeable material).
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Particles of a liquid can move through a material by diffusion if the material is permeable.
- Observe a liquid diffusing into a jelly cube.
- Predict and observe effect of temperature on the diffusion of a liquid into a jelly cube.
- Predict and observe effect of cube size on the diffusion of a liquid into a jelly cube.
- Use ideas about particles and diffusion to explain these observations.
Keywords
Diffusion - Diffusion is the net movement of particles of a substance down a concentration gradient.
Net movement - Net movement is the overall movement of particles from one area to another.
Permeable - A material is permeable if particles of a liquid are able to move through it.
Variable - In a science experiment, a variable is a factor that can be changed, kept the same, or measured.
Prediction - A scientific prediction is a testable statement about a possible outcome of an experiment
Common misconception
Particles cannot diffuse through a seemingly solid material.
This practical lesson enables pupils to observe the diffusion of acid through permeable cubes of coloured jelly.
To help you plan your year 7 science lesson on: Diffusion through a permeable material: practical, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 science lesson on: Diffusion through a permeable material: practical, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Diffusion unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions




different concentrations of particles in one area and another
the overall movement of particles from one area to another
the net movement of particles down a concentration gradient



Exit quiz
6 Questions






temperature of the acid
time taken to decolourise each cube
the size of the cubes

