Structure and Properties of Matter
The study of matter encompasses knowledge about the structure and behavior of the physical world. Students will investigate different materials, their properties, and how they can change. Through observation and experimentation, students will develop an understanding of the building blocks of our world and how they interact.
Grade Two Expectations for Structure and Properties of Matter
Essential Learning Outcome 1: Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.
[Clarification Statement: Observations could include color, texture, hardness, and flexibility. Patterns could include the similar properties that different materials share.]
- Observe and describe the physical properties of different materials
- Group materials based on similar properties
- Identify patterns in how materials with similar properties behave
- Use scientific vocabulary to describe material properties
- Plan and conduct simple investigations to test material properties
Specific Curriculum Outcomes
By the end of Grade Two, the learner will be expected to:
Inclusive Assessment Strategies
Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:
- Observations: Teacher observations during hands-on activities, group work, and discussions
- Conversations: Student explanations, questions, and discussions about materials and their properties
- Products: Student drawings, charts, tables, and written responses
Sample Assessment Tools:
- Observation checklists for material classification activities
- Rubrics for evaluating student investigations and experiments
- Science journals with prompts for reflection and self-assessment
- Concept maps to assess understanding of material properties
- Performance tasks that require application of knowledge about materials
Inclusive Learning Strategies
Additional Resources and Materials
For Teachers
- "Change it: Solids, Liquids & Gases" by Adrienne Mason
- "It does Matter: Different States of Matter" (digital resource)
- OECS Grade 2 Science Curriculum Guide
- Material property classification charts
- Safety guidelines for classroom experiments
For Students
- Collection of materials with different properties
- Building blocks and construction sets
- Simple testing equipment (magnifiers, balance scales, rulers)
- Science journals for recording observations and data
- Visual aids showing states of matter and material properties
Teacher Content Knowledge
Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. All matter is made up of particles that are too small to see with the naked eye. The three states of matter are solid, liquid, and gas. The state of matter depends on how close together the particles are and how they move. In solids, particles are packed closely together and vibrate in place. In liquids, particles are close but can move around each other. In gases, particles are far apart and move freely. Matter can change from one state to another through heating or cooling. Some changes in matter are reversible (like melting ice), while others are irreversible (like cooking an egg).