Grouping and Changing Materials

During this lesson students begin to build an understanding of  materials while they classify objects into different types of materials.  There is a good technology connection as students use reference books or CD-ROMs to find out how some materials, e.g. glass, paper, earthenware are made from naturally occurring materials.  The homework suggestion can serve as a summative assessment as the students create a collage using natural and man-made materials they have collected.

 

Weblink address (URL): 
Grouping and Changing Materials

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will:

  • Recognise that objects may be made from different materials
  • Understand that some materials are manufactured and some occur naturally
  • Classify objects according to the material from which they are made
Essential and guiding questions: 

Ask the children to think of some other objects that could be added to the items in the activity. Which is easier to find things for? Why do you think this might be?

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Use reference books or CD-ROMs to find out how some materials, e.g. glass, paper, earthenware are made from naturally occurring materials.

Helpful Hints

Materials needed:

  • Online activity from Science Clips website: Grouping and changing materials
  • A variety of manmade and naturally occurring materials (plastic, glass, polythene, twigs, cones, shells, acorns, sand, wood, water, clay)
  • A selection of reference books or CD-ROMs

References

Contributors: 
Diane Vaughn
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation