Sherry M. Burgess
Teacher’s Lesson Plan
Objective:
Students will use physical properties to compare and contrast certain
substances.
Materials:
(the number of containers is per set up>)
Magnifying glass (students can share)
10 petri dishes or clear containers with covers for samples
alcohol, kayro syrup, cooking oil, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, water, liquid dish detergent (preferably yellow in color)
,
salt, baking soda, powdered detergent (white in color.
Procedure:
1. Place a small amount of each sample in covered containers or petri dishes. (Number
each container. Keep a log of the numbers and sample identity)
2. Students are to write down the following observations for each of the samples:
Liquids: color, odor, ability to flow (viscosity)
Powders: texture, color, shape of the particles (use magnifying glass)
3. Emphasize that you are interested in the description of each item, more than its
identity. Tell students they will be told the identity of the items at the end of
the activity. Stress that tasting is not allowed!
4. Hand out the activity sheets. Students do activity.
5. Discuss the observations for the liquids and powders; comparing and contrasting.
Point out how the powders all had the same color, but the texture and particle shape
was different (especially the particle shape). Explain what they just observed were
examples of what is termed physical properties of matter.
