Nuclear Equations | SEND GCSE Physics Lesson

Inclusive SEND science lesson on Nuclear Equations for Key Stage 4 – one lesson with three pathways for PMLD, SLD / MLD and dyslexic GCSE learners. 44 slides at 28 pt, answers on click, worksheets with answers and 19 pages of print-ready cards. How does a nucleus change when it gives out radiation? An inclusive KS4 lesson on alpha and beta decay equations for special schools and mixed-ability classes.

Everyone studies the same National Curriculum topic at the right level, so the whole class learns together.

Three pathways in one lesson

• Explore (PMLD / sensory learners): a sensory story: the changing nucleus with counters. Includes an Engagement Model observation record for the adult to complete.
• Build (SLD / MLD, low reading age, EAL): match pictures to words and decide if the mass number changes – by sticking, pointing, signing or writing.
• Explain (GCSE, dyslexia-friendly): balance alpha and beta decay equations, name the new element and answer an exam question.

What’s included

• 44-slide editable PowerPoint – every word at least 28 pt, cream background, no italics, one idea per slide, a picture on every teaching slide and answers revealed one click at a time
• Visual timetable with Now / Next, feelings check-in, sensory starter, ‘I can’ objectives, key words with pictures, show-me checks, picture hinge question, exam question with mark scheme and plenary
• Multi-sensory practical: build a decay with counters
• 6-page worksheet pack (Word + PDF) in 14 pt with 1.5 line spacing: teacher guide, sensory story and engagement record, Build tasks, Explain tasks, cut-out cards and full answers
• 19-page Printable Cards and Resources pack (PDF) with cut lines: key-word picture cards, word cards, picture cards, matching cards, yes / not sure / no cards, A–D, number and answer cards, visual timetable cards, Now and Next board, feelings board, sorting mat, choice board and A4 posters
• Teaching-team notes: adult roles, resources, safety, misconceptions and Ofsted SEND links

Key words: nuclear equation, mass number, atomic number, alpha decay, beta decay, gamma, new element, balance

Curriculum

• National Curriculum Key Stage 4 Science (Physics): atomic structure, radioactive decay and nuclear radiation
• AQA GCSE Physics 8463 / Combined Science Trilogy 8464 – 4.4.2.2 Nuclear equations

Ideal for special schools, SEND resource bases, intervention groups, alternative provision and mainstream classes that need adaptive teaching.

Keywords: SEND science, special needs science lesson, PMLD sensory story, SLD, MLD, dyslexia friendly, adaptive teaching, inclusive science, KS4 physics, GCSE physics, nuclear equations, alpha decay, beta decay, balancing equations, visual timetable, communication cards, Engagement Model