KS3 Periodic Table Keyword Word Searches (Printable A4 PDF)

Instant PDF download, A4, print at home. Printable KS3 resource for UK secondary classrooms and home learning, from Top Bins Learning.

What is inside

• 24 keywords for atoms, elements and the periodic table (element, atom, compound, molecule, group, period, metal, non-metal, halogens and more), each with a short plain-English definition on two glossary pages: element, atom, compound, molecule, symbol, metal, period, group, proton, neutron, electron, nucleus, periodic, nonmetal, halogens, reactivity, conductor, insulator, malleable, brittle, mendeleev, mixture, formula, alloy.
• 6 keyword word search pages (two sets of 12 keywords, each at three levels: one star Easier across and down, two stars Core adds diagonals, three stars Challenge any direction including backwards) and 3 clue searches where the definition is the clue. 9 word searches in all.
• Matching (2 pages), spelling practice with look-say-cover-write-check grids (2), unscramble with clues (2), missing vowels (2), crack the code (2), an 'in my own words' page (1) and a keyword check-up (1).
• 23 pupil pages in total, then a full answer key and teacher notes with how-to-use ideas.

Year groups and use

Years 7 to 9 (KS3, ages 11 to 14). Use the glossary as a word mat, the word searches as a starter or settling task and the matching, clue search and own-words pages to check meaning. Good for homework, cover lessons and revision.

Checked

Every keyword appears exactly once in every grid, all 8 directions checked by a program. Filler letters are checked against a blocklist. Matching keys, unscrambles and number codes are generated and decoded by code.

Please note

Definitions are original wording written for this pack in plain language and are simplified. Please check them against your scheme of work and exam-board wording. This is vocabulary practice: it supports teaching and does not replace it or cover the whole topic. Protons, neutrons and electrons are included as common classroom vocabulary even though the KS3 programme of study does not name them.

Format: one PDF, A4 portrait, 30 pages in total (23 pupil pages including glossary or how-to pages, the rest are cover, teacher notes, contents and the answer key). Printable PDF, A4, print and go. Black and white pupil pages that print cleanly on a home or school printer.

Licence: for personal or single-classroom use; no resale or sharing.