Matching materials!

Science Year 1
This unit is part of Year 1 Science Let's Build

Objectives

Think carefully about the different materials and their properties, and play games in pairs with items from the classroom. Write songs based on the properties in materials and sing together at the end of the session!

Science Objectives
i) Distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made.

ii) Identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, plastic, glass, metal, water and rock.

iii) Describe the simple physical properties of a variety of everyday materials.

iv) Compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties.

Working Scientifically

  1. Ask simple questions and recognise that they can be answered in different ways.
  2. Observe closely, using simple equipment.
  3. Perform simple tests.
  4. Identify and classify.
  5. Use their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions.
  6. Gather and record data to help answer questions.

Lesson Planning

Teaching

  • Play Material Snap, placing objects on the table and seeing if their properties are the same.
  • Discuss the differences between an object and the material from which it is made.
  • Use scientific words to identify the materials: wood, plastic, glass and metal.
  • Write songs about materials and their properties (to the tune of Frere Jacques).

Activities

  1. Understand that objects are made of different materials and they have simple properties.
  2. Know that there is a difference between an object and the material from which it is made.
  3. Identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, plastic, glass, metal, water and rock.

Investigation - exploring, problem solving
Explore a variety of different magnets and objects (both magnetic and non-magnetic), including paperclips in jars/bowls of water. Consider challenges such as: Can you get the paperclip out of the water without getting your hands wet? Are different magnets able to hold the same amount of paper clips?

Vocabulary
Rough/smooth, flat/bumpy, sharp/blunt, wood, metal, glass, plastic, rock, materials, properties