KS3 Science: Cells, Forces, and Energy with Visuals
Information‑rich explanations, dual‑coded diagrams, and worked examples for core KS3 topics that prepare learners for GCSE.
Cells: Structure → Function
Label cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes. Link structure to function (e.g., mitochondria → respiration). Distinguish cells/tissues/organs/systems. Misconception: cells are not the same as atoms. Quick task: Match organelle to function; explain why muscle cells have many mitochondria.
Forces: Resultant and Diagrams
Draw force arrows with magnitude and direction. Balanced forces → constant velocity; unbalanced → acceleration. Distinguish weight (N) = mass (kg) × g from mass. Worked example: A 12 N pull right and 7 N friction left → resultant 5 N right. Predict motion.
Energy: Stores and Transfers
Identify stores (kinetic, gravitational, elastic, chemical, thermal) and pathways (heating, mechanical, electrical). Energy is transferred, not ‘used up’. Worked example: A raised book—gravitational store decreases, thermal store of hands/air increases via heating.
How Cartisio Helps
- Dual‑coded diagrams for cells/forces/energy.
- Flipcards: key terms and units.
- Quick quizzes: label a cell; pick the resultant force; choose the store/transfer pair.
- Spacing surfaces weak items automatically.
Useful Videos
- Trusted explainer
Evidence
- Dual Coding + Multimedia Learning (Mayer): reduce extraneous load; signal essentials.
- Retrieval Practice: repeated recall of definitions and relationships strengthens memory.
- Spacing: revisit to build long‑term understanding.