Changes in Matter Lesson Module

The Changes in Matter module further explores the concepts from previous modules, and looks at how matter may be modified or changed. Through an instructional video, games, and activities, students explore three types of changes that occur in matter: physical change, in which only the shape of the matter changes; physical phase change, in which matter changes to a different form (solid, liquid, or gas); and chemical change, in which matter is changed in a way that cannot be undone (fruits ripening or foods cooking).

Core Concept

Solids, liquids and gases can undergo changes based on the physical and chemical properties of the matter.

Essential Vocabulary

Physical change, chemical change, freeze, melt, evaporation, condensation, alter, reversible, properties

Lesson Plan

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Interactive Demos

Explore

The Explore session promotes interest in and curiosity about the chemical and physical changes of matter. In this session, students virtually effect physical and chemical changes to a variety of objects. Students also participate in a teacher-led discussion that encourages them to wonder about the different changes matter can undergo. To complete the session, students work collaboratively offline and further explore examples of physical change.

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Find It

This Elaborate session allows students to apply what they have learned to new situations. In this session, students participate in a selection of activities that focus on science process skills and content understanding. To complete the session, students work independently, or with peers, to complete an offline activity that reinforces science process skills.

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Professional Development

Science4Us provides the essentials that teachers need to confidently and effectively lead a classroom in any science lesson. This demo shows:

One section of the "Teacher Explain"
One of the 40 teacher support documents

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Additional Information

Students explore everyday scenarios such as camping or a trip to the beach and the many ordinary changes that occur in the matter around them. Students connect what they have learned through a language activity identifying cause and effect in a song about changes in matter.

Printable teacher guides are available as part of professional development to help you enhance the online material and further student understanding. These teacher guides include hands-on activities, discussion questions and more.

Professional development also features Teacher Lessons that provide additional information such as common misconceptions, vocabulary connections, content extensions and best practices specific to each lesson. One excellent practice when teaching students about Changes in Matter is to allow them to get hands on. Students will best internalize what they are learning about when they are given the opportunity to get hands-on. Experimenting with matter and observing change around them will bolster student understanding. Give your students the opportunity to experiment with physical change using clay or playdough.

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