Modelling Matter: The Nature of Bonding: Science Teaching Unit

Modelling matter:
the nature of bonding

Science teaching unit
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Modelling matter: the nature of

bonding
First published in 2008

Ref: 00094-2008DVD-EN
The National Strategies | Secondary

Modelling matter: the nature of bonding
Contents
Lesson 1: Why does the model need extending?
Lesson 2: Good enough model?
13
Lesson 3: Developing the model ionic bonding
18
Lesson 4: Developing the model covalent bonding
22
Lesson 5: Developing the model metallic bonding
26
Crown copyright 2008
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bonding
Background
This teaching sequence is designed for use at Key Stage 4. It links to the Secondary
National Strategy Framework for Science yearly learning objectives and provides
coverage of parts of the QCA Programme of Study for Science. The sequence extends
the simple particle model of matter introduced in Explaining change process using a
simple particle model of matter to enable pupils to explain a wider range of physical and
chemical properties. The model introduced at Key Stage 3 did not provide any
explanation for the mechanism of bonding, nor did it account for why some substances
exist in simple atomic or molecular forms whereas others exist as giant structures. In this
unit, a simple account of the electronic structure of atoms is introduced, and is used to
explain ionic, covalent and metallic bonding. The nature of bonding is then related to
key physical and chemical properties. Furthermore, the nature of modelling in science is
treated explicitly so that pupils understand that although simple models can be
powerful in generating explanations, it is sometimes necessary to use more complex
models to explain a broader range of properties.
By the end of the unit, pupils should be able to use the model of electron configuration
to explain ionic, covalent and metallic bonding, and relate bonding to simple physical
and chemical properties. This aim is addressed through interactive teaching approaches
where links between subject matter are explored and established through appropriate
talk between teacher and pupils, and amongst pupils.
Teaching design principles

The design of this sequence is based upon a number of key principles. These are listed
below:
Working on knowledge
The sequence involves:
building explicitly upon the model of matter previously introduced;
developing and learning how to use a model of bonding which is good enough to
explain how compounds are formed;
considering explicitly the differences between the two models of matter (Key Stage
3 and Key Stage 4), and the reasons for developing and using models in science.
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Teaching approach
introducing the need to extend the model used at Key Stage 3;
using the new model to define ionic, covalent and metallic bonding.
Communicative approach
using different communicative approaches between teacher and pupils according

to different teaching purposes;
providing opportunities for pupil-pupil talk, mainly in pairs.
How science works

This sequence involves:
developing the general idea of a scientific model as a device for explaining or

accounting for various properties of matter, including chemical bonding.
A key aspect of the teaching approach involves considering how models are used in
science to explain the behaviour of the material world. In this unit, pupils consider the
limitations of the model of matter introduced at Key Stage 3 for explaining chemical
change, and are introduced to a more sophisticated model with broader explanatory
power. During pupils discussions, the teacher will need to spend time emphasising to
pupils that they are developing a rather sophisticated model that was not fully
elaborated until relatively recently in the history of science (i.e. in the early 20th century).
The development and use of models is considered in the Using models study guide.
Pupil curriculum starting points

Pupils will have been introduced to a simple model of the structure of matter at Key
Stage 3, and will have used it to explain some physical properties of solids, liquids and
gases. They will have also been introduced to a simple model of chemical change based
upon the rearrangement of different kinds of atoms. However, a model to explain
bonding was not introduced, and no explanation for the existence of simple atomic and
molecular structures and giant structures was provided.
This unit assumes that pupils have been introduced to electron structure and are
confident in the arrangements of the electrons for the first 20 elements in simple ring
shaped energy levels. If pupils have not been introduced to electron structure, this can
be done in the second lesson, before Activity 2.3.
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bonding: Overview
Why does the model
need extending?
review of model, group
practical activity
Good enough model?

teacher-led exploration
of limitations of existing
model
Developing the model

- ionic bonding:
teacher exposition and
pupil exploration.
Developing the
model - ionic bonding:
teacher exposition and
pupil exploration.

- metallic bonding:
exploration of
limitations of models
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Lesson 1: Why does the model

need extending?
The lesson starts with a review of the particle model of solids, liquids and gases
introduced at Key Stage 3. The limitations of this model are then explored by
considering the properties of a range of solid compounds.
Activity 1.1: Revision of the model of solids, liquids and gases.

Teaching objectives
To revise the particle model used at Key Stage 3.
To encourage pupils to talk through their ideas about particle models, thereby
motivating them to start thinking about the topic.
To collect Assessment for Learning (AfL) baseline information about the pupils
understanding of content introduced at Key Stage 3.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this activity the pupils will be able to:
recall and use the Key Stage 3 particle model;
reflect on their understanding of the Key Stage 3 model and be ready to extend the
model.
What to prepare
Worksheet: Reminder of Key Stage 3 work - Particle models of solids, liquids and
gases.
Mode of interaction
INTERACTIVE/AUTHORITATIVE
Through question and answer work,
the teacher draws attention to
particular features of pupils models
of solids, liquids and gases,
re-wording and focusing as
appropriate.
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What happens during this activity

The teacher presents the class with examples of solids, liquids and gases and leads a
discussion with the pupils to revise the particle model from their Key Stage 3
knowledge. They complete the drawings on the worksheet. It is important at this stage
that the pupils remember and understand all of the features of the model, and that the
teacher does not allow any incorrect features to remain unchallenged.
Activity 1.2: The properties of ionic and covalent compounds

In this activity the pupils record their observations of the properties of different compounds.
Teaching objectives
To develop a shared classification of compounds having divided them into two

groups which have broadly similar properties.
To encourage pupils to talk through their ideas about the properties of the
compounds.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the activity, will be able to:
recognise that solid compounds whose structure is currently represented in the

same way, can have very different properties and that these differences are not
easily explained by the Key Stage 3 particle model.
What to prepare
Worksheet: Compounds observations
Risk assessment.
Mode of interaction
Pupils work in pairs to record their

observations. The teacher then takes
an INTERACTIVE/AUTHORITATIVE
approach in building an agreed view
of the properties of these compounds.
Pupils work around a collection of compounds with differing properties and address
questions on a worksheet. The prompts on the worksheet guide pupils towards making
clear distinctions between the properties.
At this stage pupils are asked to record their observations, but are not asked to consider
why the compounds have these properties. Observations could be recorded on sticky
notes so that the pupils can collate their findings about the compounds on large pieces
of paper, for the discussion that follows.
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The examples in the circus, and the rationale for choosing them, are as follows:
Examples
Rationale
DISSOLVING salt, copper sulfate,

and wax in warm water
These three substances have been selected

because, although they are all solids, their
behaviour on mixing with water is different.
This difference cannot be explained with the
Key Stage 3 model of matter.
CONDUCTIVITY of copper sulfate,

salt and sugar solutions.
These three substances have been selected

because, although they are all solids and
appear crystalline, their electrical
conductivity when dissolved in water is
different. This difference cannot be explained
with the Key Stage 3 model of matter.
MELTING of wax, sugar and salt
These substances have been selected

because although they are solids, their
melting points are very different. This
difference cannot be explained with the Key
Stage 3 model of matter.
RESEARCH ACTIVITY of finding

the melting and boiling points (if
possible) of sugar, copper sulfate,
wax, salt, water, hydrogen and
chlorine as well as the elemental
composition of the compounds.
This activity provides further information

about the sizable differences in the melting
and boiling points of solids, which so far have
been modelled in the same way.
These research activities take considerable time, so teachers may choose to allocate
each of these activities to different groups of pupils.
During this activity pupils are encouraged to begin tentatively to group/classify
substances and use opportunities to explain their grouping to others in order to
develop their understanding of the differences between ionic (metal/non-metal
bonding) and covalent compounds (non-metal/non-metal bonding). They could also be
encouraged to look for anomalies, for example, graphite.
Finally, the teacher reviews the pupils observations with them, and then helps them to
sort the compounds into two groups:
The first group of compounds (WAX, SUGAR) have low melting and boiling points,
dont conduct electricity when in solution, dont dissolve in water and do not
include atoms from metallic elements.
The second group of compounds (COPPER SULFATE, SALT) have high melting and
boiling points, conduct electricity when in solution, dissolve in water and contain
atoms from metallic elements.
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Reminder of Key Stage 3 work

Particle models of solids, liquids and gases
Complete this sheet by drawing the arrangements of the particles in solids, liquids and
gases. Take care with the detail of your drawings.
Solids
Liquids
Gases
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Compounds observations
Safety notes need to be added by the teacher: precautions are needed during the heating of
the solids (with the risk of spitting) and when using copper sulfate (which is hazardous). It is
recommended that eye protection is worn.
Dissolving
We are going to find out whether four compounds will dissolve in water.
Take four small beakers of warm water. Add a small spatula of salt to the first beaker, and
stir. [If you add too much you wont see the correct result!]
Does the salt dissolve? How can you tell? KEEP THE BEAKER AND ITS CONTENTS FOR
THE NEXT EXPERIMENT!
Add a small spatula of copper sulfate to the second beaker, and stir.
Does the copper sulfate dissolve? How can you tell? KEEP THE BEAKER AND ITS
CONTENTS FOR THE NEXT EXPERIMENT!
Add a small spatula of wax to the third beaker, and stir.
Does the wax dissolve? How can you tell? YOU CAN TIDY THIS APPARATUS AWAY: WE
DONT NEED IT AGAIN!
Add a small spatula of sugar to the fourth beaker, and stir.
Does the sugar dissolve? How can you tell? KEEP THE BEAKER AND ITS CONTENTS FOR
THE NEXT EXPERIMENT!
Conductivity
We are now going to test whether the salt solution, the copper sulfate solution and
the sugar solution conduct electricity.
Set up the circuit as your teacher shows you, and test whether the solution conducts
electricity.
Delete as appropriate:
Copper sulfate solution conducts electricity/ Copper sulfate solution does not
conduct electricity
Salt solution conducts electricity/ Salt solution does not conduct electricity
Sugar solution conducts electricity/ Sugar solution does not conduct electricity
Melting
We are going to find out how easily sugar, salt and wax melt. The less time we heat
them before they melt, the lower the boiling point. (We are not going to test how easy it
is to melt copper sulfate for safety reasons.)
Take three crucibles with lids. Put a spatula of sugar in the first, a spatula of salt in the
second, and a small piece of wax in the third.
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11
Set up the apparatus as in the photograph.
Andrew Lambert Photography / Science Photo Library.
Place the first crucible on the clay triangle. Heat from below with a Bunsen burner. Look
to see if the sugar has melted every 30 seconds or so.
Repeat this procedure with the second crucible (salt).
Repeat with the third crucible (wax).
SO, WHICH OF THE SUBSTANCES HAVE HIGH MELTING POINTS? WHICH HAVE LOW
MELTING POINTS?
Research activity
Use the Internet to find the melting and boiling point (if possible) for the following
compounds. Also, see if you can find out the elements that each is made from, and note
down if it contains any elements that are metals. (Hint: Carbon is not a metal!)
Compound
Melting
point
Boiling
point
Does it contain any

atoms from elements
that are metals?
Sucrose (this is the

chemical name for
one type of sugar)
Copper sulfate
Paraffin wax
Sodium chloride
(this is table salt)
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Summary of properties
Using your results, complete these groupings of the substances that you have worked
with:
High melting point and boiling point
Low melting point and boiling point
Soluble in water
Insoluble in water
Conducted electricity in solution
Did not conduct electricity in

solution
Contains both metal and non- metal

elements
Only contains non-metal elements
Can you spot any patterns in your results?

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Lesson 2: Good enough

model?
Teaching story
The pupils are introduced to the idea that their current particle model has
limitations because it cannot explain all of the properties identified in the last
lesson.
The teacher then explains that a model needs to be fit for purpose. With the pupils
now understanding more about scientific modelling, the idea of mobile, charged
particles is introduced into the model.
The development and use of models is considered in the Using Models study guide.
Activity 2.1: Identifying specific limitations of the particle model

Teaching objective
To guide pupils to recognise that the Key Stage 3 model that they have been using
cannot explain conductivity and intermolecular bond strength.
Learning outcome
By the end of the activity, pupils will be able to:
recognise that their existing model of the structure of matter has limitations;
recognise that the model needs to be extended to explain a broader range of the
properties of substances.
Mode of interaction
Through question and answer work,
the teacher draws attention to
particular limitations of the models in
explaining the properties of the
compounds.
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The teacher goes through the properties of the two groups of compounds identified in
the previous lesson. The teacher then asks the pupils whether the properties can be
explained using the model that was developed at Key Stage 3, drawing the pupils
attention to the limitation of the model.
Activity 2.2: Choosing a model fit for purpose

Teaching objectives
To introduce the idea that a model should be fit for purpose.
To pose to the pupils the possibility that their Key Stage 3 model may need to be
extended.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the activity pupils have begun to:
understand the idea that a model should be fit for purpose;
think that their original model may need to be extended.
Mode of interaction
INTERACTIVE/AUTHORITATIVE as the
teacher talks through the analogies to
illustrate the idea that models need to
be fit for purpose.

This is a teacher-led presentation addressing the nature of modelling in science.
The specific points to be emphasised are:
models are much more than descriptions or pictures of things in the real world;
rather, they are representations that emphasise particular features of the real world
for particular purposes.
These points can be emphasised by drawing the following two analogies:
The teacher selects a recent news story and compares how it is reported, for
example, on The News at Ten, Newsround and Sixty Seconds. Each of these
formats is fit for purpose. It is possible to give a short, factual account which is
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15
appropriate for some peoples needs. A more detailed approach is needed for other
peoples needs. It is not the case that one version is right and the other is wrong the
distinction is in focus and level of detail.
The teacher describes the difference between taking a photograph of the laboratory
apparatus used to boil a beaker of water, and drawing a diagram of the same
apparatus. The diagram emphasises particular features and ignores others. This does
not necessarily make the diagram wrong a better way to look at it is that it is a
model of the apparatus which is better at explaining some features than a
photograph.
The teacher than explains that this can be the same with scientific models. Pupils are
likely to accept that a photograph of atoms if it were possible to take one would not
show things as they have been drawn in their science lessons. Although the current Key
Stage 3 model can explain some features of solids, liquids and gases, and help to define
and differentiate substances, elements, mixtures, compounds, physical and chemical
changes, it cannot explain the properties of compounds considered so far in this lesson
sequence. In order to do this the model needs to be extended.
Activity 2.3: Extending the model

Teaching objective
To encourage pupils to talk through how specific features of an extended model of

the nature of matter, i.e. charged particles, might explain some properties of matter,
such as structure and dissolving.
Learning outcomes
explain how their existing model might be extended to address a broader range of
properties of matter;
explain how a model including charged particles might explain some features of the
behaviour of matter, such as structure and dissolving.
What to prepare
Worksheet: Just supposing
Mode of interaction
Pupils work in pairs

with an INTERACTIVE/
DIALOGIC approach to
consider the addition to
the particle model and
to explain the
behaviour of sodium
chloride.
DIALOGIC
HOTSPOT
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What happens in this activity

The teacher introduces the idea that particles can be charged and mobile, and that this
can explain some of the properties observed earlier. Key points to introduce are that:
there are two types of charge on particles positive and negative;
opposite charges attract.
The teacher then reminds pupils of the dissolving of salt (sodium chloride) and poses
the question: What if sodium particles and chloride particles were oppositely charged?
What if water particles had a charge? Pupils then work in groups to think about how this
might help to explain the following questions:
How come sodium chloride is a giant structure with millions and millions of
sodium and chloride particles in lines in all directions?
Target answer: Opposite charges attract. You can surround one sodium particle with at
least 6 chloride particles, then surround each chloride particle with six sodium particles,
resulting in a massive 3-dimensional structure.
How come sodium chloride crystals break up when put into water?
Target answer: Charged particles in water touch the sodium and chloride particles and
are attracted to them; this breaks down the crystal.
The teacher then draws together key features of pupils models with the whole class.
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Just supposing
Just supposing
sodium particles and chloride particles were charged
and they had opposite chargeswhich attracted one another
and water particles also had a charge
Could we explain the following things about sodium chloride?
Sodium chloride is a SOLID, the sodium and chloride particles are BONDED together,
and MANY MILLIONS OF PARTICLES are bonded together to make a crystal.
Sodium chloride dissolves very easily when mixed with water.
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Lesson 3: Developing the

model ionic bonding
Teaching story
Pupils now have an understanding that their model of matter can be extended to
include charged particles in order to address a wider range of properties of matter.
The next step in the teaching story is to explain how these particles have become
charged. Before the idea of electron transfer and sharing is introduced, electron
structure is revised. If electron structure has not been taught previously, it will need
to be taught fully as a substitute for activity 3.1.
Activity 3.1: Revision of electron configuration

Teaching objective:
To revise electron configuration.
Learning outcomes
represent electron configuration confidently;
recognise that electron configuration diagrams are models that are going to be
used to explain some properties of atoms.
Mode of interaction
The teacher leads the revision,
possibly through questions and
answers, depending on how electron
configuration has been taught
previously.

The electron configuration of the first 20 elements is revised. This is addressed in the
traditional manner of circular representations of the energy levels as shown in other
schemes of work or text books.
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Key features to emphasise:
This is a model to show a useful way of thinking about electrons. Those who study
more chemistry and physics will encounter yet more sophisticated representations
of electron structure, which can provide even more powerful explanations of
properties.
The dot and cross notation often used in textbooks is widely assumed by pupils to
indicate that electrons from different atoms are actually different; it is therefore
necessary to emphasise that this is a convenient representation to show the origins of
electrons, but all electrons are the same, no matter what atoms they are
associated with.
The kind of representation of electron configuration to work towards is shown for neon:
Activity 3.2: How are the charged particles formed?

Teaching objectives
To use the model of electron configuration to explain the formation of positively

and negatively charged ions.
To explain how the existence of charged particles accounts for the structure of ionic
compounds in the solid state.
Learning outcomes
explain how ions are formed by electron transfer;
explain how the existence of charged particles accounts for ionic giant structures.
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Mode of interaction
INTERACTIVE/AUTHORITATIVE:
teacher-led presentation.

The teacher uses a diagrammatic representation of the electron configuration of lithium
to show how a positive ion forms, and a diagrammatic representation of the electron
configuration of fluorine to show how a negative ion (fluoride) forms. Pupils attention is
drawn to the nomenclature of the fluoride ion, and how this compares to other
compounds that they have encountered (e.g. chlorides).
Note: Lithium fluoride has been used because of the simplicity of its electron
configuration. Some teachers may prefer to use a more familiar compound, such as
sodium chloride, which the pupils have already seen in this unit. This will require the
teacher to address the issue of outer shell electrons.
A target representation to work towards is shown:
The teacher then describes how, in compounds such as lithium fluoride, electrons
transfer from atoms of one element to atoms of another element. This explains where
the electrons go to and where the electrons come from. The teacher illustrates the
3-dimensional structure of lithium fluoride, showing how the attraction of charged
particles explains why lithium fluoride is a giant structure.
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The solubility of lithium chloride is explained in terms of charged particles being

attracted to water particles, which have different charges at each end. A target
representation is suggested below.
A piece of lithium chloride in water
Note: In this unit, no attempt is made to address the size of charge on ions, or
stoichiometry.
The pupils are then given a set of guidelines/rules which can be used to develop a
quicker approach to working out the electronic structure of ions. They then use the
rules to explore how potassium and chlorine form ions.
Atoms loose or gain electrons so that they have a full outer shell of electrons. This is
the most stable arrangement. (That is why the Noble gases which have full outer
shells of electrons are very unreactive. They dont easily lose or gain electrons.)
The more electrons that need to be lost or gained to get a full outer shell, the less
likely an atom is to form ions.
Atoms lose or gain as few electrons as possible when forming ions beryllium loses
2 electrons rather than gaining 6, for example.
Therefore, when ions form, usually a maximum of 3 electrons are lost or gained.
The sorts of probing questions the teacher might ask are:

Will the atom lose or gain electrons? How can you decide? (Get pupils to think about
how many electrons are in the outer shell, and the easiest way to get a complete outer
shell of electrons.)
Are there any other rules you could add to make it easier to decide whether an atom is
likely to form ions, and what charge the ions are likely to have?
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model covalent bonding
Teaching story
Pupils are reminded that the charged particle model has so far only been used to
explain the properties of one group of substances. Further extension of the model is
required to explain the properties of the other group of substances (sugar and wax)
identified in Lesson 1. Pupils are introduced to a second method of bond formation,
namely electron sharing to form covalent compounds. Pupils consider how this
explains the properties of other familiar substances.
Activity 4.1: How are the other compounds formed?

Teaching objectives
To introduce the existence of different types of bonding to explain the properties of

different groups of substances.
To develop a shared model of covalent bonding with pupils, and to show how this
can be used to explain the structure of diatomic gaseous elements such as
hydrogen, oxygen and chlorine.
To collect Assessment for Learning (AfL) information about the pupils thinking from
their responses to the question and answer sessions.
Learning outcomes
recognise covalent bonding as involving electron sharing;
explain how electron sharing results in a molecular structure, and contrast this with
ionic bonding which results in a giant structure.
Mode of interaction
The teacher takes an

approach to introduce a model
of covalent bonding as electron
sharing.
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Mode of interaction
Pupils work in pairs, using an

INTERACTIVE / DIALOGIC
approach, to consider the
extension to the particles
model.
DIALOGIC
HOTSPOT

Pupils are reminded of the substances they have looked at in Lessons 1 and 2 whose
properties are not similar to lithium chloride (or sodium chloride).
Note: The examples presented in Lessons 1 and 2 actually include three groups:
simple molecular structures (hydrogen, oxygen, chlorine);
molecular giant structures (sucrose);
polymers (wax).
In this lesson, the focus will be on simple molecular structures for the sake of simplicity in
addressing covalent bonding. There will be opportunities elsewhere in the Key Stage 4
curriculum to use the model to explain the bonding of molecular giant structures and
polymers. However, teachers may want to be prepared to address pupils questions about
the properties of wax and sucrose. These could be explained in terms of the existence of
weak bonds between molecules, explaining the low melting and boiling points.
The teacher poses a question:
How come the molecules in hydrogen gas are not touching, yet millions of lithium and
chloride atoms are touching in solid lithium chloride?
Pairs of pupils could briefly discuss this question and the teacher takes feedback.
The teacher then proposes the model of electron sharing to form covalent bonds.
Again, this is done using the traditional approach of the dot and cross representation.
A possible target representation of the H2 molecule is shown below:
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Pupils, working in pairs, are asked to explain the following properties of covalent
compounds. Each question could be presented on the whiteboard, with pupils having
the chance for quick discussions in pairs before responding:
Why is the chemical formula for hydrogen gas H2 and not just H?
Why are molecules of hydrogen gas not electrically charged?
Why dont atoms of hydrogen bond together to form a crystal, like lithium fluoride?
Activity 4.2: Practising using the model.

Teaching objectives
To allow the pupils to practise showing how covalent and ionic bonds are formed for
simple compounds.
To continue to link the type of bonding to properties.
Learning outcomes
use the extended particle model to show bonding, and link that to properties.
What to prepare
Worksheet: Bonding and properties.
Mode of interaction
INTERACTIVE/AUTHORITATIVE Pupils
work in pairs focusing on the correct
scientific models. The teacher
circulates to probe pupils
understanding.

Working in small groups or pairs, pupils are given an example of ionic bonding to
complete, and an example of covalent bonding. Pupils have to make statements about
the properties of each compound, based upon its bonding.
The examples presented are sodium chloride (ionic) and chlorine gas (covalent). This
activity could be extended to include the sharing of more than one pair of electrons and
ions with a charge of more than 1.
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Some common questions asked by pupils, and possible responses, are presented
below:
Possible question
Potential response
How do atoms know to lose an

electron?
It is very difficult to give a satisfactory

explanation at this level. It is usual to
describe atoms being stable when they
have a complete outer shell of
electrons. The atom doesnt know to
lose an electron. It is just more stable
for it to exist with a full outer shell of
electrons, so it does. The notion of
stability can be explained in terms of
the arrangement having low energy.
Why do some atoms lose electrons while

others share electrons?
Again, it is hard to give a completely

satisfactory explanation. However,
pupils have seen that chlorine can exist
in both ionic and covalently bonded
structures. This shows that a given
atom can attain its stable structure
with a complete outer shell of electrons
in more than one way.
Examples like carbon dioxide and
sodium chloride can be used to explain
why some substances form ionic bonds
while others form covalent bonds.
Carbon has to lose or gain 4 electrons
to form ions, and we saw in the last
lesson that atoms rarely loose or gain
more than 3 electrons. However, by
sharing electrons, it is possible for both
carbon and oxygen atoms to have full
outer shells. Sodium and chlorine only
have to lose or gain one electron, and
therefore form ionic bonds.
How do atoms know how many

electrons to lose?
This is best answered in terms of

stability. Atoms are more stable with
complete outer shells of electrons, so
they lose or gain the number of
electrons that results in the most stable
state.
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Bonding and properties

You are going to draw diagrams to show the bonding in two compounds, and consider
how this explains the properties of each compound.
1. Sodium chloride (ionic bonding)

Draw an electron diagram for a sodium atom.
(Hint: it has 11 protons and 11 electrons. The electrons are arranged in 3 shells.)
How many electrons does the sodium atom have to lose or gain to get a complete
outer shell of electrons?
Draw an electron diagram for a charged sodium ion. What is the charge on the ion?
Draw an electron diagram for a chlorine atom.

(Hint: it has 17 protons and 17 electrons. The electrons are arranged in 3 shells.)
How many electrons does the sodium atom have to lose or gain to get a complete
outer shell of electrons?
Draw an electron diagram for a charged chloride ion. What is the charge on the ion?
Solid sodium chloride exists as salt crystals. Explain how the ionic bonding helps us to
understand why sodium chloride is made of crystals.
Sodium chloride crystals dissolve easily in water. Explain how the ionic bonding helps us
to understand why they dissolve in water.
Sodium chloride has a high melting point. What does this tell us about the strength of
the ionic bonds in sodium chloride?
2. Chlorine gas (covalent bonding)

You have already drawn an electron diagram for a chlorine atom in the last section.
How many electrons does the chlorine atom need to share with another atom in
order to have a full outer shell of electrons?
Draw an electron diagram for a chlorine atom but only showing the outer shell of
electrons. This is how people normally draw electron diagrams to explain bonding. It is
simpler to ignore the inner shells of electrons because they are not involved in bonding.
Draw an electron diagram for a chlorine molecule. (Hint: the formula for a chlorine
molecule is Cl2, so you will need to draw two chlorine atoms, each sharing one electron.)
Chlorine is a gas. Explain how our model of the bonding in chlorine helps us to
understand why chlorine exists as a gas, rather than as a crystal structure.
00094-2008DVD-EN

27

model metallic bonding
Teaching story
The pupils are introduced to the properties of metals. Through discussion, pupils are
made aware that these properties cannot be explained in terms of ionic or covalent
bonding. A simple model of metallic bonding is introduced and used to explain
some properties of metals.
Activity 5.1: The properties of metals.

Teaching objectives
To develop a shared view of the properties of metals.
To develop a shared understanding of the need for a new model of bonding for
metals, and some features that the model should include.
Learning outcomes
recognise key properties of metals;
explain that the existing models of ionic and covalent bonding are inadequate to
explain the properties of metals;
recognise that the model of bonding in metals should address the strength,
flexibility and conductivity of metals.
Mode of interaction
Pupils work in groups to

discuss their ideas with an
INTERACTIVE / DIALOGIC
approach. The teacher
probes pupils developing
thinking.
DIALOGIC
HOTSPOT
What to prepare
Worksheet: Metals whats going on?
00094-2008DVD-EN
28


This activity begins with a demonstration by the teacher to establish some key
properties of metals. As properties such as conductivity are likely to be familiar to pupils,
little time is spent demonstrating this property. However, some teachers may choose to
allocate time for the pupils to carry out practical work to test conductivity.
Three metals are chosen as examples: copper, iron and zinc.
The teacher demonstrates their conductivity.
Their flexibility is then demonstrated, and contrasted with the brittleness of ionic
solids such as sodium chloride.
The teacher should also remind pupils that solutions of ionic compounds conduct
electricity. However, pupils may not know that in solid form, ionic compounds do not
conduct electricity. This should be demonstrated.
Finally, a sample of each metal is held in the Bunsen burner flame to show that
metals have a high melting point.
Pupils then work in small groups to discuss answers to the questions posed on the
worksheet Metals whats going on? The questions focus attention on the relationship
between the properties of ionic and covalent compounds and their bonding and ask
pupils to identify why the models of ionic and covalent bonding do not explain the
properties of metals. The rationale for the questions on the sheet is as follows:
Question area
Rationale
Questions that contrast the

brittleness of crystalline solids and
the flexibility of metals, but
recognise that both metals and
crystalline solids are strong.
Ionic bonds must be strong due to the high

melting point of ionic solids, but ionic solids
are brittle and metals are not. Pupils are asked
what would happen if a plane of charged
sodium and a plane of chloride particles were
to slide against one another. The answer
enables them to appreciate that similarly
charged sodium and chloride particles would
repel each other. Furthermore, metals contain
just one kind of atom. Metals cannot
therefore have ionic bonding.
Questions that contrast the

electrical conductivity of ionic
solids, solutions of ionic
compounds and metals.
In ionic solids no charged particles are free to

move and carry current. In solutions of ionic
compounds the ions are free to carry current.
What charged particles might be free to carry
current in solid metals?
Questions about covalently

bonded substances.
The only covalently bonded compounds to

be addressed in this unit exist as simple
molecules. On this basis, pupils should be
able to dismiss the notion that the atoms in
metals are bonded covalently.
00094-2008DVD-EN

29
Finally, the teacher reviews the pupils explanations in a plenary session. The class is led
to an agreed view that a new model of bonding for metals is needed which can explain:
the flexibility of metals the model must explain why metals do not snap so easily
when bent;
the conductivity of metals the model must include charged particles that are free
to carry electric current;
the fact that metals are solids with high melting points the model must include
strong bonds between atoms.
Activity 5.2: Teacher presentation: bonding in metals

Teaching objective
To present a simple model of metallic bonding that can explain the strength,
flexibility and conductivity of metals.
Learning outcomes
explain the flexibility, conductivity and strength of metals in terms of a simple

model of metallic bonding.
Mode of interaction
The teacher presents the model of
metallic bonding, relating it to the
properties of metals, and contrasting
it with the models of ionic and
covalent bonding.
00094-2008DVD-EN
30


The teacher makes a presentation about metallic bonding. Key features of the model,
and how they relate to the properties of metals, are summarised below:
Feature of model
How it relates to the properties of metals
Electrons in the outer shells of

each metal atom are free to move
between atoms.
These electrons are shared between large

groups of atoms explaining the strength of
metals.
Electrons in the outer shells of

each metal atom are free to move
between atoms.
These electrons are charged and free to

move, which explains why metals are good
conductors of electricity.
The electrons are shared between

large groups of atoms.
This explains why metals are solids.
Metals consist of just one type of

atom, and the atoms do not carry a
charge.
Atoms can therefore slide over each other,

staying tightly joined together, without any
repulsion of oppositely-charged atoms.
Executive desk toys, which have a magnetic base and lots of small pieces of metal that
can be sculpted into different shapes, can be used to model the atoms in metals and
explain why metals can be stretched and beaten into different shapes (i.e. the
properties of ductility and malleability).
00094-2008DVD-EN

31
Metals whats going on?

Jot down your answers to the questions in the spaces as you work through this series of
questions.
Metals are solids. Most of the covalently-bonded substances that you have seen are
gases.
How can we tell that the atoms in metals arent held together by covalent
bonds?
How do we know that the bonds between atoms in metals are strong? How do
we know that the bonds between the atoms in ionic compounds like sodium
chloride are strong?
Can you think of a reason why ionic compounds like sodium chloride are
brittle? Hint: think what would happen if two layers of atoms in a sodium chloride
crystal slid along each other. Think what would happen if we tried to slide the two
rows of magnets along each other in the diagram below:
N and N, S and S poles
repel
N and S poles attract

S
Do you think that the atoms in metals can have ionic bonding?
Metals conduct electricity. Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity in their solid
form, but conduct electricity when in solution.
Think back to your models of the structure of solid ionic compounds like sodium
chloride, and solutions of sodium chloride: what could be carrying the electric
current in the solution, and why isnt it free to move in the solid?
Do you think that the atoms in metals can have ionic bonding?
00094-2008DVD-EN
32

Acknowledgements
Page 11, Photograph of Oxidation of magnesium. Andrew Lambert Photography /
Science Photo Library. Used with kind permission.
00094-2008DVD-EN
Audience: Science subject leaders, teachers of

science and higher level teaching assistants.
Date of issue: 02-2008
Ref: 00094-2008DVD-EN
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Children, Schools and Families
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Modelling matter:

the nature of bonding

Modelling matter: the nature of

First published in 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

Modelling matter: the nature of bonding

Lesson 1: Why does the model need extending?

Lesson 2: Good enough model?

Lesson 3: Developing the model ionic bonding

Lesson 4: Developing the model covalent bonding

Lesson 5: Developing the model metallic bonding

Crown copyright 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

Modelling matter: the nature of

Teaching design principles

building explicitly upon the model of matter previously introduced;

Crown copyright 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

introducing the need to extend the model used at Key Stage 3;

using different communicative approaches between teacher and pupils according

providing opportunities for pupil-pupil talk, mainly in pairs.

How science works

developing the general idea of a scientific model as a device for explaining or

Pupil curriculum starting points

Crown copyright 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

Modelling matter: the nature of

Good enough model?

Developing the model

Developing the model

Crown copyright 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

Lesson 1: Why does the model

Activity 1.1: Revision of the model of solids, liquids and gases.

To revise the particle model used at Key Stage 3.

recall and use the Key Stage 3 particle model;

Crown copyright 2008

The National Strategies | Secondary

What happens during this activity

Activity 1.2: The properties of ionic and covalent compounds

To develop a shared classification of compounds having divided them into two

recognise that solid compounds whose structure is currently represented in the

Worksheet: Compounds observations

Pupils work in pairs to record their

The National Strategies | Secondary

DISSOLVING salt, copper sulfate,

These three substances have been selected

CONDUCTIVITY of copper sulfate,

These three substances have been selected

MELTING of wax, sugar and salt

These substances have been selected

RESEARCH ACTIVITY of finding

This activity provides further information

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The National Strategies | Secondary

Reminder of Key Stage 3 work

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The National Strategies | Secondary

Crown copyright 2008