Big Idea 9: Changes in Matter

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A. Matter can undergo a variety of changes.

B. Matter can be changed physically or chemically.

Clarification for grades K-5: The target understanding for students in the elementary grades should focus on Big Ideas A and B.

Clarification for Grades 6-8: The target understanding for students in middle grades should begin to transition the focus to: C. When matter changes chemically, a rearrangement of bonds between the atoms occurs. This results in new substances with new properties.

General Information
Number: SC.K.P.9
Title: Changes in Matter
Type: Big Idea
Subject: Science
Grade: K
Body of Knowledge: Physical Science

Related Benchmarks

This cluster includes the following benchmarks.

Related Access Points

This cluster includes the following access points.

Independent

SC.K.P.9.In.1
Recognize that the shape of objects, such as paper, changes when cut, torn, or crumpled.

Supported

SC.K.P.9.Su.1
Recognize that the shape of objects, such as paper, changes when cut or torn.

Participatory

SC.K.P.9.Pa.1
Recognize a change in an object.

Related Resources

Vetted resources educators can use to teach the concepts and skills in this topic.

Lesson Plans

Responsible Changes MATTER:

Students will learn about the characteristics of being a responsible citizen and put into practice making responsible and irresponsible decisions by changing a piece of paper as an analogy for decision making, in this integrated lesson plan.

Type: Lesson Plan

Clay Eagle:

Students will explore how the shape of modelling clay can be changed by cutting, tearing, crumpling, smashing, or rolling. They will mold clay into the shape of a bald eagle and discuss how their clay model is a representation of a bald eagle that shows its major features. The class will discuss the bald eagle as a symbol of the United States in this integrated lesson.

Type: Lesson Plan

The Paper Change:

In this science-integrated reading lesson, kindergarten students will learn about physical changes to matter. Students will then create an informational text recording their observation of changing the physical properties of an object of their own choosing.

Type: Lesson Plan

Fly, Fly Away:

This lesson provides the opportunity for students to practice changing matter by cutting, tearing, and/or rearranging materials in order to make an object that can defy gravity over moving air. This lesson incorporates design challenge aspects at a level that is appropriate for young students who are just beginning their formal education.

Type: Lesson Plan

Original Student Tutorial

Clay Art Takes Shape!:

Explore how you can change the shape of clay to create an art project in this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Unit/Lesson Sequence

Physical Changes:

Two lessons provide students with opportunities to explore physical changes. Students manipulate paper and clay to demonstrate and discuss physical changes of matter.

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Student Resources

Vetted resources students can use to learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Original Student Tutorial

Clay Art Takes Shape!:

Explore how you can change the shape of clay to create an art project in this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Parent Resources

Vetted resources caregivers can use to help students learn the concepts and skills in this topic.