Unpacking properties of matter
Elizabeth Garvin 2005

Outcomes Concepts
Identify and classify objects by observable properties (characteristics).
  • Objects have many observable properties, including color, texture, size, weight, shape, temperature, and the ability to interact with other objects.
  • Objects are described and identified by their properties.
  • Different states have different properties.
  • Objects float or sink in relation to their mass, shape, and size (density and bouyancy).
  • Properties of objects will determine how they interact with other objects.
  • Not all materials change in the same way when interacting with other objects.
  • Equal volumes of different substances usually have different masses.
  • All objects have mass (stuff from which they are made).
  • All objects have volume (take up space).
Classify different rock formations and minerals by similar properties.
  • Objects can be separated or sorted into groups of objects or materials by their properties.
  • Objects may be made of one or more materials (paper, cloth, wood, clay, and metal).
  • Objects can be identified by the materials from which they are made.
Use approptiate tools to gather information and compare characteristics of properites Properties can be observed better with scientific tools (hand lenses for small objects, using standard units or similar objects as measuring devices, and using thermometers or body parts to sense temperature).
Identify the different states of solids

Materials exist in different states- solid, liquid, and gas.
Different states have different properties.

  • Solids can be in all sizes and shapes. However, they maintain their shapes as they are moved (rotated, poured...)
  • Solids can support denser materials on their surfaces.
  • Solids can be separated by screens.
  • Some solids change when mixed with water (dissolve) others form a layer below or above the surface.
  • Liquids pour and flow
  • When put in a container liquids take the shape of their container.
  • Liquids can have properties of transparent, translucent, opaque, viscous, free flowing, foamy.
  • Gases are matter. (Take up space and have mass)
  • Gases will spread throughout its container or dissipate and flow from an opening in the container.
Demonstrate that materials change from a solid to liquid to gas by heating and from a gas to liquid to solid by cooling.

Interactions can change some materials properties.

Differentiate how heat changes different materials. Heating or cooling changes materials. (expand, contract, change of state, physical change, and chemical change).
Match movement of heat to types of energy during energy transfer. Heat energy can be transferred by radiation, convection, and conduction.