Physical Science: Structure and Properties of Matter

Lessons in the Structure and Properties of Matter unit are part of a larger unit on Physical Sciences (click for bundle) or they can be purchased individually. This unit includes lessons on Chemistry, The Periodic Table, States of Matter, Mixtures vs. Pure Substances, and Measuring Matter, supporting MS-PS1 (Structure and Properties of Matter) of the NGSS.

Here are some things you will like about “How About Science?” activities!

∙ NO PREP (other than making copies)

∙ STANDARDS-BASED

∙ EXCELLENT FOR REVIEW

∙ GREAT FOR VISUAL LEARNERS

∙ PERFECT FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

∙ MAKEUP FRIENDLY (if absent students have access to an internet connection)

∙ LOADED WITH GOOD EXAMPLES OF DIFFICULT CONCEPTS

∙ QUIZZES THAT SUPPORT EACH LESSON (click the rocket)

The handouts and included answer keys work together with videos and links found at Physical Science. Students may work individually if everyone has an internet connected device. If not, the videos can be projected and the handouts filled out as a group. Once students complete a handout, you may choose to discuss the answers and play the Kahout! (click the link on the home page to learn more about Kahouts!)

Here are a few things to consider. If students are working individually it is helpful, but not required to have headphones or earbuds. If the sound is kept low even a large class of students can be successful without them. Also, because students find the directions very easy to follow, these are perfect for substitute teachers. And, because the videos are online, students with internet connections at home don't have to be at school to complete an assignment. Students can pause the videos at anytime as they answer the questions, allowing them to work at their own pace. My classes are typically action packed with labs and activities, but these video-based lessons require careful listening and focus. My classes are never quieter, which is kind of nice on occasion.

The video materials chosen are based on length, clarity, quality and how closely they align with the national standards. The lesson could be added as an introduction or as further exploration and could be completed as one activity or broken into smaller segments. "How About Science?" materials can be incorporated into your existing unit in various ways depending on your style of teaching and the ability level of your students.

Note! I would suggest doing a trial run before purchasing if you plan to have a large class of students working at individual computers. Internet connection speeds vary which may cause videos to load slowly. You might have everyone log on and try my free resource on TpT (or just go to a lesson and choose something) just to be sure you aren't going to have connection issues. If you do, then you can always project the videos and complete the handouts as a group.

For more information about how to get the most out of How About Science?, click the Teacher's Guide in the menu bar on the website.