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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STEM Lessons - Model Eliciting Activity
In this MEA, students are being asked to rank which rocks would be best to use for a rock garden based on a given set of data. Only one group of rocks can be chosen to build Mr. Potter's rock garden.
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
Visit The Sweet Shop and tickle your senses as we observe properties of matter in this interactive tutorial.
Visit The Sweet Shop and see how their treats measure up as we explore length measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Visit The Sweet Shop and size up their menu as we explore volume and mass measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Visit The Sweet Shop and heat up your measuring skills as we explore temperature measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Student Resources
Original Student Tutorials
Visit The Sweet Shop and heat up your measuring skills as we explore temperature measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Type: Original Student Tutorial
Visit The Sweet Shop and size up their menu as we explore volume and mass measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Type: Original Student Tutorial
Visit The Sweet Shop and see how their treats measure up as we explore length measurement in this interactive science tutorial.
Type: Original Student Tutorial
Visit The Sweet Shop and tickle your senses as we observe properties of matter in this interactive tutorial.
Type: Original Student Tutorial