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Year 1 - Science

Materials for recycling (Climate Change & Sustainability)

Everyday materials

Unit Summary

This unit focuses on distinguishing objects from the materials they are made of, identifying common materials like wood, plastic, and metal, and describing their physical properties. It involves comparing and grouping materials, performing simple tests, and using observations to answer questions.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to name and group different materials that can be recycled.

Key Notes

  • Different objects can be made from different materials.
  • Some materials can be recycled and used again.
  • Glass, paper, plastic, wood and metal can often be recycled.
  • Objects can be sorted into different materials by observing and comparing.
  • Recycling is important because it reduces waste and this helps the planet.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • object: An object is something you can touch but something that is not usually a living thing.
  • material: A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.
  • recycle: Recycling is when we collect and sort our rubbish instead of throwing it away. These items then get changed into something new for us to use.
  • sort: To sort is to put items into different groups.
  • group: To group things is to put similar things together.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Children may instinctively classify objects by observational similarities or through knowledge of use rather than by the material from which the objects are made.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

Different objects can be made from different materials. Some materials can be recycled and used again.

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'object'

An object is something you can touch but something that is not usually a living thing. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: Children may instinctively classify objects by observational similarities or through knowledge of use rather than by the material from which the objects are made. Correction: Reminders of the difference between the object, what it is used for, and the material it is made from. Use of real-life objects for children to explore to aid this understanding.

More Lessons In This Unit

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