B. Objects and substances can be classified by their physical and chemical properties. Mass is the amount of matter (or "stuff") in an object. Weight, on the other hand, is the measure of force of attraction (gravitational force) between an object and Earth.
The concepts of mass and weight are complicated and potentially confusing to elementary students. Hence, the more familiar term of "weight" is recommended for use to stand for both mass and weight in grades K-5. By grades 6-8, students are expected to understand the distinction between mass and weight, and use them appropriately.
Clarification for grades K-2: The use of the more familiar term ‘weight’ instead of the term “mass” is recommended for grades K-2.
Clarification for grades 3-5: In grade 3, introduce the term mass as compared to the term weight. In grade 4, investigate the concept of weight versus mass of objects. In grade 5, discuss why mass (not weight) is used to compare properties of solids, liquids and gases.
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Item Type(s):
This benchmark may be assessed using:
MC
item(s)
Also Assesses - Clarification :
Students will classify and/or compare substances on the basis of their physical properties and/or explain that these properties are independent of the amount of the sample.
Students will describe density and/or calculate and compare the densities of various materials using the materials’ masses and volumes. - Content Limits :
Items may require use of the density formula to calculate density, mass, or volume when comparing substances.
Items that assess conductivity, solubility, or magnetic properties will be at a conceptual level only. Items will not require calculations for these topics.
Items addressing solubility may include the terms solvent, solute, and saturation. Items may assess the concept of saturation.
Items will not require memorization of the specific melting points and/or boiling points of substances. - Stimulus Attributes :
Temperature will only be shown in degrees Celsius (°C).
Scenarios requiring calculation of density must include the density equation. - Response Attributes :
None specified - Prior Knowledge :
Items may require the student to apply science knowledge described in the NGSSS from lower grades. This benchmark requires prerequisite knowledge from SC.3.P.8.1, SC.3.P.8.2, SC.3.P.8.3, SC.3.P.9.1, SC.4.P.8.1, SC.P.4.8.2, SC.4.P.8.4, SC.5.P.8.1, SC.5.P.11.1, and SC.5.P.11.2.
SC.8.P.8.3 Explore and describe the densities of various materials through measurement of their masses and volumes.
- Test Item #: Sample Item 1
- Question: Matthew has six cubes of different materials. Each cube has a mass of 10 grams (g). Matthew sorts the cubes into two groups using one physical property.
which physical property did matthew most likely use to sort the cubes into two groups? - Difficulty: N/A
- Type: MC: Multiple Choice
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STEM Lessons - Model Eliciting Activity
This MEA provides students with opportunities to practice solving one-step equations while learning about density. Students will calculate density of regular and irregular objects.
Model Eliciting Activities, MEAs, are open-ended, interdisciplinary problem-solving activities that are meant to reveal students’ thinking about the concepts embedded in realistic situations. Click here to learn more about MEAs and how they can transform your classroom.
In this MEA, students must select which material to use in the development of an advanced military scout robot. Students must analyze data about each material’s individual properties that would make it a valid choice for military or police service. Students must complete calculations to determine material density as well as the overall mass and weight of the robot. This lesson focuses on the characteristic properties of density, unit conversion, and differentiating between mass and weight.
Model Eliciting Activities, MEAs, are open-ended, interdisciplinary problem-solving activities that are meant to reveal students’ thinking about the concepts embedded in realistic situations. Click here to learn more about MEAs and how they can transform your classroom.
Students must select a tranquilizer dart to be used by the US Fish and Wildlife Service for researching large animals. Next, they must help the US Geological Survey choose a new drilling device. Each projectile has varying characteristics based on the temperature of the chemicals inside. Students must select which temperature lends itself to a reaction suitable for service in animal research or geological studies. Other factors due to temperature come into play as well, such as density and melting point.
Model Eliciting Activities, MEAs, are open-ended, interdisciplinary problem-solving activities that are meant to reveal students’ thinking about the concepts embedded in realistic situations. Click here to learn more about MEAs and how they can transform your classroom.
Original Student Tutorials Science - Grades K-8
Learn to identify physical properties, compare and contrast substances based on their physical properties. In this interactive tutorial, you'll focus on density and determine whether physical properties have the ability to change.
Student Resources
Original Student Tutorial
Learn to identify physical properties, compare and contrast substances based on their physical properties. In this interactive tutorial, you'll focus on density and determine whether physical properties have the ability to change.
Type: Original Student Tutorial
Perspectives Video: Expert
Statistical analysis played an essential role in using microgravity sensors to determine location of caves in Wakulla County.
Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.
Type: Perspectives Video: Expert
Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiasts
This discussion about the physical properties of flamenco guitars is full of good vibes.
Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.
Type: Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast
Want a clean sound in your recording? Oxidation will test your mettle. Make sure you choose the right material for the job.
Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.
Type: Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast
Parent Resources
Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiasts
This discussion about the physical properties of flamenco guitars is full of good vibes.
Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.
Type: Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast
Want a clean sound in your recording? Oxidation will test your mettle. Make sure you choose the right material for the job.
Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.
Type: Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast