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Year 1 - Science

Waterproof materials: plan and do

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 plan and do an investigation to find out about waterproof materials.

Key Notes

  • The properties of materials make them suitable or not suitable for different jobs.
  • Being waterproof is one type of simple property.
  • If a material is waterproof it does not let water pass through it.
  • Some materials are waterproof and some materials are not.
  • Scientists test materials to find out which are waterproof and which are not.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • material: A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.
  • properties: The describing words we use for a material are called its properties.
  • suitable: Someone or something that is suitable for a particular purpose or occasion is right or acceptable for it.
  • waterproof: A waterproof material does not allow any water to pass through it.
  • investigate: When scientists investigate they are trying to find out what happens when something is changed.

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.

The properties of materials make them suitable or not suitable for different jobs. Being waterproof is one type of simple property.

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

A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material. 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: Importance of testing each material to check if we are correct and not to rely on what we think we already know. Scientists ask questions and test their ideas.

More Lessons In This Unit

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