Collision theory teaching resources

Worksheets and lesson ideas to challenge students aged 11 to 16 to think about collision theory (GCSE and Key Stage 3)

The video below from Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro provides an engaging way to introduce the concepts met when teaching collision theory. Play the song from 1.00 min and ask students what the link is between the lyrics and rates of reaction. You could also play the song at the start of your lesson and ask students to write down what they already know about rates of reaction – it may help trigger some prior knowledge!

When we collide we come together
If we don’t we’ll always be apart
I’ll take a bruise; I know you’re worth it
When you hit me hit me hard

Collision theory

GCSE worksheet on the collision theory and rates of reaction. This worksheet helps students scaffold their understanding to explain rates of reaction. The concept of a successful collision is introduced. Students describe and explain how changes to a reaction can increase the rate of a reaction. (PDF)

Investigating surface area and rates of reaction

GCSE/KS3 worksheet investigating how surface area affects rate of reaction.This great little practical gets students investigating how the surface area of a vitamin C tablet affects the time taken for it to react with water. The simplicity and safeness of the practical means students can be free to investigate. Depending on your group, you may want to get students to calculate the surface area of each tablet. (PDF)

Explaining changes in rates of reaction

GCSE worksheet using particle pictures to explain changes in rates of reaction. Students use collision theory to explain differences in rates of reaction when conditions are changed, such as pressure and temperature. (PDF)

  1. Catalysts and activation energy
  2. Collision theory 
  3. Rates of reaction graphs

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