Nuclear fission & nuclear fuels

Nuclear powered submarines

Synopsis

This lesson provides students with opportunities to learn about nuclear fission in the context of nuclear power stations and submarines. Key issues pertaining to safety, waste disposal and risk are also addressed, along with the opportunity for students to consider the merits of sustainable nuclear fuels versus the dangers of human exposure to radiation. Finally students debate the option of disarmament, presented with a series of arguments for and against.

This lesson features numerous visual stimuli and interactive elements. Students should be encouraged to pursue their understanding of the nuclear debate through current affairs.

MOD Topic

Nuclear powered submarines

Curriculum Checklist

2.2a, b, c; 2.3a, b; 2.4a

Curriculum Links

• History
• Citizenship
• PSHE
• English

Prior Knowledge

The properties of elements.
The properties of nuclei and isotopes.
Awareness of the periodic table.
Awareness that energy can be derived from many sources.
Some familiarity with the dangers of radiation.

Learning Outcomes

Lower ability students will:

• Be able to follow the process of nuclear fission and to understand most of the associated vocabulary.
• Understand that nuclear fission occurs within a nuclear power plant, with a view to generating energy for domestic use.
• Understand that there are various hazards associated with nuclear power generation and that these contribute to the argument against the building of more plants.

Average ability students will:

• Be familiar with the process of nuclear fission.
• Be able to explain that nuclear fission occurs within a nuclear power plant, demanding appropriate security measures.
• Become aware of the increasing use of nuclear power on Royal Navy submarines.

Higher ability students will:

• Know the process of nuclear fission and associated vocabulary and able to extend this understanding to the processes within a nuclear power plant.
• Be able to formulate clear arguments for or against nuclear power and recognise the importance of debate over this issue.
• Become aware of the increasing use of nuclear power on Royal Navy submarines and some suggest advantages of nuclear powered submarines over conventionally powered submarines.

Lesson code

SC2