Classification of Matter

From the author: "Students are introduced to the concept of different kinds of matter. Students create models of different substances to learn to identify the differences between elements, compounds, and mixtures. This lesson is developed so that teachers can use it with English as a Second Language students." The lesson's lab activity illustrates through metaphor the difference between elements, compounds and mixtures, while demonstrating examples of each and discussion of their properties.  Students can then apply the lab activity to the physical world.

Weblink address (URL): 
Classification of Matter

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will:

  • Distinguish between elements, compounds, and mixtures.
  • Explain how composition of materials determines their classification as elements, compounds, or mixtures.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Differentiation suggestions: 

Modifications:
Although the lesson needs to be modified for students at intermediate and novice levels of English proficiency, it is appropriate as is for ELLs at advanced level of English proficiency because:

  • definitions, lab instructions, and assessment activity directions are language sensitive
  • the central activity of the lesson is hands-on, which highly contextualizes material
  • students are heterogeneously grouped
  • the teacher circulates in the classroom during the activity and is available to help

Helpful Hints

Materials/Resources:

  • transparencies with key definitions (see critical vocabulary section)
  • samples (enough for demonstration by teacher) of elements, compounds, and mixtures, such as copper, sulfur, water, salt, a can of vegetable soup, chocolate chip cookies (for the teacher to demonstrate)
  • lab instructions for teacher
  • student instructions
  • quiz
  • lab materials: per group: two seven ounce boxes of gum drops containing at least five different colors (or any candy if toothpick can go through pieces), a small container of toothpicks, seven clear zip lock bags (three snack size, two quart size, and two gallon size), a labeling pen to label bags; colored pencils for sketching; unlined paper for sketching

References

Contributors: 
Jeffrey Hill
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation