Material properties

I can describe simple properties of everyday materials.

Material properties

I can describe simple properties of everyday materials.

Slide deck

Lesson details

Key learning points

1. Different materials can be described in different ways.
2. The describing words we use for a material are called its properties.
3. We use our senses when describing properties of materials.
4. Materials can be compared and grouped on the basis of their simple properties.

Common misconception

Some children may think that soft means smooth. Younger children may find it hard to describe a material based only on its properties (and not its function).

Opportunities to rehearse expressing ideas and describing properties. Teacher to model and correct as necessary, making clear the difference between the function of an object and the properties of its material(s).

Keywords

• Material - A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.
• Describe - To say or write what someone or something is like.
• Properties - The describing words we use for a material are called its properties.
• Observe - To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.
• Feel - To feel something is to touch it.