States of Matter

Today we discussed some of the states of mater - solid, liquid and gas.

We started by having a discussion of the different states and what they mean (solid - the molecules are close together in a fixed position, it has a definite shape and volume and keeps its own shape etc)

we tried to push into a nail into a solid rock (hard to do)

then a liquid and then a gas (very easy to do)

Then it was time for the 3 part cards

and a quick sorting game.(cards and game came from Montessori print shop)

Next came a little activity to change the state of matter - we took ice cubes and melted them in a pan (changed from solid to liquid) then allowed the liquid to boil and turn into steam (gas)

we were able to discuss why this had happened (heat) which flowed nicely to what causes atoms to separate (providing them with energy - often in the form of heat) and followed up with 2 great examples.

First we took some solid coconut oil and scooped a small amount onto their arms where it turned immediately into a liquid oil and slid down their arms- they were quick to realise that this was because their bodies were warm.

but the next was their favourite - we took some ice lollies and told them they had to place a small amount on their tongues and to see what happens to the solid - their guess was correct, it melts because of your body heat changes the bonds.

Don't you just love it when a plan comes together :)