Key terms & definitions

A chemical element whose usable supply is limited or difficult to obtain reliably, for example because production is concentrated in particular places.

A material whose available supply is limited relative to demand, making it difficult to obtain reliably.

A resource whose availability is limited relative to demand for it.

A graph of paired numerical measurements, with one point for each observation, used to investigate a relationship between two variables.

A graph in which each plotted point represents paired values for two numerical variables.

A graph plotting paired values of two numerical variables, with each point representing one individual or observation.

A graph on which paired values of two variables are plotted as separate points.

A graph showing paired numerical data, with each point representing one pair of values.

A graph plotting paired measurements of two variables, with one point for each participant or observation.

A graph plotting paired numerical values as separate points to show the relationship between two variables.

A graph that plots each pair of values as a point to show how two variables may be related.

A graph of paired numerical values used to investigate whether two quantities are related.

The redirection of light in many directions, for example by a rough surface or within a translucent material.

The spreading of waves in many directions, for example when they reflect from a rough surface.

A graph in which each point represents a pair of numerical values, allowing a relationship between two variables to be examined.

Workers employed to remove rubbish and other waste from streets.

A situation or set of conditions used to consider what a product needs to do and how suitable a design would be.

A questioning attitude towards claims, especially when they appear to lack convincing evidence.

A plan showing when project tasks should happen and how long they are expected to take.

Broadcasting that follows a schedule, with programmes transmitted at times chosen by the broadcaster.

A set of rules used by the operating system to prioritise processes and decide which gets processor time.

A mental framework built from experience that helps a person organise and interpret information.

A diagram using symbols and connections to show how components in a system are connected, rather than their realistic appearance or physical positions.

A tightly packed defensive formation of infantry holding long spears outwards to resist attacks, especially by cavalry.

A separation within the Church caused by serious disagreements over belief or authority.

A mental disorder involving disturbances in thinking, perception, emotion and behaviour, which can include difficulty distinguishing experiences from external reality.

Germany’s strategy, developed by Alfred von Schlieffen in 1905, for defeating France quickly before concentrating its forces against Russia.

A medieval approach to learning that examined texts and questions through carefully structured arguments, objections and responses.

The values, beliefs and moral expectations which characterise a school.

A literary tradition centred on school life, often involving friendships, rivalries, teachers and the experience of growing up.