Foundation Level (Fail → Pass)

Basic prompts to build essential understanding.

1. List the elements in Group 1.

2. List the elements in Group 2.

3. State the common oxidation states of Group 1 and Group 2 elements.

4. Describe one physical property of alkali metals.

5. Describe one physical property of alkaline earth metals.

6. Why are Group 1 metals stored in oil?

7. Write the general electron configuration of Group 1 elements.

8. Write the general electron configuration of Group 2 elements.

9. State one common use of sodium.

10. Explain why Group 1 metals form +1 ions.

 Intermediate Level (Pass → Credit)

Prompts requiring explanation, comparison, and reactions.

1. Compare the reactivity of lithium, sodium, and potassium.

2. Write the balanced equation for sodium reacting with water.

3. Explain why Group 1 metals become more reactive down the group.

4. Describe the solubility trend of Group 2 hydroxides.

5. Describe the solubility trend of Group 2 sulfates.

6. Explain why Group 2 metals form +2 ions.

7. Write a balanced equation for the thermal decomposition of magnesium carbonate.

8. Compare the flame colours of lithium, sodium, and potassium.

9. Explain why Group 2 carbonates are more thermally stable than Group 1 carbonates.

10. Describe one similarity and one difference between Group 1 and Group 2 metals.

Advanced Level (Credit → Distinction)

Analytical and deeper conceptual prompts.

1. Analyse the trend in ionisation energies down Group 1 and Group 2.

2. Explain how atomic radius and shielding affect reactivity in the s‑block.

3. Compare hydration enthalpies of Group 1 and Group 2 ions and relate to solubility.

4. Discuss why Be and Mg show anomalous behaviour in Group 2.

5. Predict and justify the trend in melting points in Group 1 metals.

6. Explain lattice enthalpy differences between Group 1 and Group 2 compounds.

7. Discuss how polarising power of cations affects the stability of carbonates.

8. Evaluate why Group 2 hydroxides become stronger bases down the group.

9. Discuss why Group 1 nitrates do not decompose like Group 2 nitrates.

10. Propose reasons why s‑block elements act as strong reducing agents.