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Explore the scientific theory of atoms (also known as atomic theory) by using models to explain the motion of particles in solids, liquids, and gases.
Standard #: SC.8.P.8.1
Standard Information
General Information
Subject Area: Science
Grade: 8
Body of Knowledge: Physical Science
Idea: Level 2: Basic Application of Skills & Concepts
Big Idea: Properties of Matter - A. All objects and substances in the world are made of matter. Matter has two fundamental properties: matter takes up space and matter has mass which gives it inertia.

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.
Date Adopted or Revised: 02/08
Content Complexity Rating: Level 2: Basic Application of Skills & Concepts - More Information
Date of Last Rating: 05/08
Status: State Board Approved
Assessed: Yes
Related Courses
Related Access Points
  • SC.8.P.8.In.1 Compare properties of solids, liquids, and gases.
  • SC.8.P.8.Su.1 Recognize three states of matter, including solids, liquids, and gases.
  • SC.8.P.8.Pa.1 Recognize examples of the gaseous state of matter, such as steam or smoke.
Related Resources
Lesson Plans
  • States and Phases of Matter Students will collect and analyze data on the kinetic energy of molecules through the different states of matter. Throughout the lab, students will be modeling the process of adding and removing energy from matter which leads to phase changes. Students will use their knowledge of states of matter to introduce the relative amount of kinetic energy in each state of matter, how changes in the kinetic energy can causes phase changes in matter, and what those phase changes are called.
  • Temperature and Particle Theory The resource allows students to model and describe how temperature affects molecular motion or particle theory.
  • States of Matter States of matter seems like a simple concept. Everyone knows that water has a solid phase, which is ice, a liquid phase, which is water, and a gaseous stage, which is water vapor. At this level, students are expected to understand the motion of particles at the molecular level. A thorough understanding of particle motion is necessary in preparation for chemistry in the eight grade standards. This activity is fun at Halloween because families may use dry ice in Halloween displays.
  • Particle Movement in Solids, Liquids, and Gases Using guided notes and an interactive game, students will be able to describe the motion of particles in solids, liquids, and gases.
  • Alien Elements-Are they hiding here? This lesson is a high interest presentation and activity that presents the concepts of elemental composition, temperature effects, and states of matter geared to 8th graders.
  • Atomic Theory The Purpose of the lesson is to teach the students about five major atomic theories using inquiry-based learning. By allowing the students to be introduced to the historical backgrounds and having each group to create a three dimensional figure and a poster, it allows the learning process to be student-driven, inductive and interactive.
  • The movement of particles in solids, liquids, and gases. Students will be able to describe the motion of the particles in solids, liquids, and gases.

    Content statements:
    - The particles of a gas move quickly and are able to spread apart from one another.
    - The particles of a liquid are able to move past each other.
    - The particles of a solid are not able to move out of their positions relative to one another, but do have small vibrational movements.
Original Student Tutorial
  • Your Ice Cream Is Moving Learn to sequence a series of diagrams to create a model of a substance transitioning from a solid state to a liquid state in this interactive tutorial.
Original Student Tutorials Science - Grades K-8
  • Your Ice Cream Is Moving Learn to sequence a series of diagrams to create a model of a substance transitioning from a solid state to a liquid state in this interactive tutorial.
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