AS A MATTER OF FACT!

This website introduces learners to the properties of matter. Students will use inquiry and hands-on activities to examine matter and determine the volume. The lesson provides examples for incorporating language arts and social studies. This website allows for a variety of learning styles and can be adapted to meet the needs of all learners. Problem solving is a key element students use to determine the properties of matter. The video "Matter" can be found through ITV- Series:Science Alliance Matter, however; this lesson can be utilized without the video or another video about matter can be used. Materials are easy to obtain and and activities are age appropriate. Another aspect of this lesson is the  vocabulary students at this level will incorporate.

Weblink address (URL): 
AS A MATTER OF FACT!

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will be able to:

  • Identify the three states of matter
  • Know that all matter is composed of its own properties
  • Use standard and nonstandard units to measure objects to see how matter can be measured
  • Find the volume of a variety of objects in class
  • Conduct experiments to better understand the properties of matter

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Extensions:

Math-

  • Have students do more assignments with the metric system using their math books.

Art-

  • Have the class fold their papers into three sections and have them label the sections as: solid, liquid and gas. Have them draw a picture in each box to demonstrate these different states of matter.

Literature-

  • Read "Sugaring Time," by Kathryn Lasky to learn about the properties of maple sap used to make maple syrup.
  • Read "Ice Cream," written by William Jaspersohn demonstrating how matter is involved in the ice cream making process.

Social Studies-

  • Research Archimedes to find out more about measuring volume.
  • Research Roy Plunkett to learn what he knows about matter.
  • Research George Washington Carver to find out what he discovered about how matter interacts with other matter helping him invent over 300 uses for the peanut.
  • Find out if your community recycles and how your family can help.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

Each class will need:

  • 3 golf balls
  • 3 ping pong balls
  • 1 paper bags
  • transparent tub/bowl
  • water

Each student or team of three students will need:

  • piece of clay: approximately one cubic inch
  • 50 mL graduated cylinder
  • water
  • paper
  • pencil

References

Contributors: 
Rhilda Gastineau
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation