Objectives: Understanding the structure of matter
Methodology: The recommended program includes:
Learning Questions: How can we observe the effects of matter being made up of particles too small to see? How can we explore the ways materials interact differently based on their properties?
Next Generation Science Standards:
Background:
Matter is what makes up everything in the world. We can tell some differences between materials by observing them, but matter can be different down to the microscopic structure. Matter is made of tiny particles way too small to see with the eye, and the structure of those particles is what differentiates one thing from another. If you can't tell the difference between two materials by sight or touch alone, try observing how the materials react to other things. Mixing materials with liquids is a great method of discovering their differences.
Materials:
Time: 30 minutes
Activity:
Separate one teaspoon of the different powders. Despite the fact that they are all white powders, they have different properties. Explore the different properties. Ask questions like:
Prepare three small cups of water. What happens if you mix the different powders with the different cups of water? Do they all dissolve the same way? Do the powders all react the same way when mixed with vinegar as they do when mixed with water? What does this tell you about the powders?
Questions to Answer in this week’s Fly-By:
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