Big Idea 8: Properties of Matter

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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.

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.

General Information
Number: SC.3.P.8
Title: Properties of Matter
Type: Big Idea
Subject: Science
Grade: 3
Body of Knowledge: Physical Science

Related Benchmarks

This cluster includes the following benchmarks.

Related Access Points

This cluster includes the following access points.

Independent

SC.3.P.8.In.1
Observe and identify the colder/hotter temperature measured on a thermometer.
SC.3.P.8.In.2
Measure the weight of solids or liquids.
SC.3.P.8.In.3
Group objects by two observable properties, such as size and shape or color and texture.

Supported

SC.3.P.8.Su.1
Recognize that a thermometer measures temperature (cold and hot).
SC.3.P.8.Su.2
Sort solid objects by weight (heavy and light).
SC.3.P.8.Su.3
Sort objects by an observable property, such as size, shape, color, and texture.

Participatory

SC.3.P.8.Pa.1
Recognize the temperature of items, such as food, as cool or warm.
SC.3.P.8.Pa.2
Recognize the larger of two objects.
SC.3.P.8.Pa.3
Match objects by an observable property, such as size, shape, and color.

Related Resources

Vetted resources educators can use to teach the concepts and skills in this topic.

Assessment

Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties Assessment :

Use this summative assessment to assess the students' understanding of the topics presented in within this Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties.  The assessment can either be cumulative or broken into topics presented within the unit.

This assessment is part of the CPALMS Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Assessment

Image/Photographs

SaM-1 Character Animal Rehabilitation & Conservation Center Printable Patches:

Print these patches for students to earn as they progress through each unit with SaM-1.   Patches can be printed on regular paper to be cut out or printed on sticker paper to have pre-made stickers.  

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Animal Rehabilitation & Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

SaM-1 Animal Rehabilitation & Conservation Center Unit Printable Patches:

Print these patches for students to earn as they progress through each unit with SaM-1.   Patches can be printed on regular paper to be cut out or printed on sticker paper to have pre-made stickers.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Animal Rehabilitation & Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Bulletin Board Observations:

The following are visuals to help create bulletin boards for the classroom. Notes are included on how to create or enhance the bulletin board. Separate files for the artwork are available to print and recreate the bulletin boards. All artwork is scaled for a 3ft by 4ft board. Be creative and use the artwork in any way you can imagine!

Observations:
This SaM-1 bulletin board provides a visual to display with a variety of vocabulary words for reference throughout the unit. As new words are introduced, they can be added to the bulletin board. Consider attaching a variety of real-life examples under each property, like a color wheel or paint samples for color.  Provide different samples of substances with different hardnesses and textures.  Attach to the board examples of different shapes that are printed on paper or even three-dimensional.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Bulletin Board Properties:

The following are visuals to help create bulletin boards for the classroom. Notes are included on how to create or enhance the bulletin board. Separate files for the artwork are available to print and recreate the bulletin boards. All artwork is scaled for a 3ft by 4ft board. Be creative and use the artwork in any way you can imagine!

Properties:
This SaM-1 bulletin board is designed to be interactive.  After students have learned about sorting food based on properties in lesson 2, they can continue their skills at this bulletin board.  Small boxes, decorated milk cartons or other containers can be attached to the board so students can create categories for each property and sort objects or pictures into them.  Consider using laminated paper to glue on the front of each box so a dry erase marker can be used to name each category and easily be changed.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Bulletin Board Length:

The following are visuals to help create bulletin boards for the classroom. Notes are included on how to create or enhance the bulletin board. Separate files for the artwork are available to print and recreate the bulletin boards. All artwork is scaled for a 3ft by 4ft board. Be creative and use the artwork in any way you can imagine!

Length:
This SaM-1 bulletin board is designed to be interactive.   Assemble the board using printed vocabulary words and an actual yard stick and meter stick.  Pin to the board a variety of string snakes for students to measure and sort into groups based on length.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties Interactive Bulletin Boards:

Download this folder full of interactive SaM-1 bulletin board ideas and artwork for your classroom!  

This download is part of a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  Be sure to look at the PowerPoint to visualize how to create the bulletin boards and get more ideas.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Bulletin Board Robots:

The following are visuals to help create bulletin boards for the classroom. Separate files for the artwork are available to print and recreate the bulletin boards. Be creative and use the artwork in any way you can imagine!

Robots:

Robot graphics to be used for bulletin board artwork

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  .

Type: Image/Photograph

Bulletin Board Design Process:

The following are visuals to help create bulletin boards for the classroom. Notes are included on how to create or enhance the bulletin board. Separate files for the artwork are available to print and recreate the bulletin boards. All artwork is scaled for a 3ft by 4ft board. Be creative and use the artwork in any way you can imagine!

Engineering Design Process:

This SaM-1 bulletin board provides a visual display to refer to while students are exploring and creating using the Engineering Design Process.  Consider having students place their names next to the stage they are at and moving to the next stage when they are ready, to help know where they are in the process. This bulletin board will be useful throughout the year, but especially for the MEA lessons.

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Image/Photograph

Lesson Plans

Using Machine Learning and Computational Thinking to Train an AI Model:

Students will explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and use computational thinking and Machine Learning (ML) to pretrain a model to recognize and identify objects, including geometric shapes and aircraft. They will used unplugged activities to mimic sorting and classification of the objects using their prior knowledge and then make connections to human learning and Machine Learning. Students will then problem solve and propose solutions using computational thinking to improve the ML model to better recognize the objects. This lesson is an integrated Computer Science, Science and Math lesson designed for students in grades 3-5 to apply math and science content knowledge while exploring and using computational thinking as they think like Computer Engineers and reflect on potential career paths.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 1 Observations:

Students learn that making observations is an important aspect of scientific study. Students will review concepts about water by making observations based on different properties and states of matter of water. Students will also review how to measure volume, mass and temperature as they will use these skills throughout the unit.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 12 Engineering Design Problem: Beat the Heat Part 3: Testing a Cooler:

In this engineering design problem, students will have the opportunity to apply what they
learned about the changes water undergoes when it changes state through heating and
cooling by designing their own cooler. Students will be asked to use the engineering design
process to design a cooler that will reduce the melting of frozen water in hot temperatures
at the beach. Students will need to design and build their cooler, test their materials, and
justify their design decisions. In this lesson students will test their cooler’s effectiveness in
keeping ice from melting. In subsequent lessons students will improve their designs.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 5 Evaporation Experiment:

Students set up an experiment and gather data to investigate the evaporation of water.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit ofSaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

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Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 4 Melting Experiment:

Students set up an experiment and gather data to investigate the melting of solid water.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit ofSaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

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Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 2 Changes to Water: Boiling and Freezing:

Students learn water can change state of matter through the addition or removal of heat.
Students will learn the boiling and freezing points of water at standard pressure. Students
will also review how data can be used to create line graphs and these graphs can show
patterns and changes to temperature over time.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 10 Grouping by Mass:

Students will make objects of given masses based on identified animal needs using a balance.  This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 19 Sand Temperature Lab Investigation: Graphing Data for Evidence:

Students will create line graphs from the collected data on the temperature of shaded and non-shaded sand from the previous lesson. Students will use the data and graphs as evidence to make conclusions on if the shading had an impact on sand temperature. This lesson could also be taught using Math instructional time.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 18 Sand Temperature Lab Investigation: Data Collection:

Students will set up the lab investigation that they planned in the previous lesson and collect data on the temperature of shaded and non-shaded sand. This lesson could also be taught using Math instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 16 Reading And Recording Temperature:

Students will make observations based on the property of temperature while representing the data in line graphs. This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 15 Observing Sea Turtles:

Students will use their listening and writing skills to watch a video to learn about sea turtles, preparing them for subsequent lessons in the unit. This lesson could also be taught using ELA instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 14 Volume: Solids Displacement:

Students will make learn how to find the volume of irregular objects using a graduated cylinder. Students will solve problems based on the volume of irregular objects and determine the volumes of given objects. This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 13 Introduction to Displacement:

Students will make learn how to find the volume of irregular objects using a graduated cylinder. Students will solve problems based on the volume of irregular objects and determine the volumes of given objects. This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 12 Volume: Liquids:

Students will learn how to use a graduated cylinder to make observations based on the volume of liquids. Students will solve word problems based on volume and measure out given liquid volumes. This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 11 Introduction to Volume:

Students will learn how to use a graduated cylinder to make observations based on the volume of liquids.  This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 1- Observations:

Students learn that making observations is an important aspect of scientific study. Students will make observations based on different properties and use these properties throughout the unit. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 2 Properties:

Students will continue making observations as an important aspect of scientific study. Students will make observations based on different properties and use these properties throughout the unit.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 3 Introduction to Length :

Students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length. This lesson could be co-taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 4 Length & Line Plots: Centimeters:

Students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length, measuring in metric while organizing the data in line plots.  This lesson could be co-taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 5 Length in Inches:

Students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length, measuring in the customary systems. This lesson could be co-taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 6 Grouping by Length:

Students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length, measuring in both metric and customary systems while organizing the data in line plots.  This lesson could be co-taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 7 Measuring Mass:

Students will make observations and sort items based on the mass of materials using a balance.  This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit  https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 8 Mass Solids:

Students will make observations and sort items based on the mass of materials using a balance. This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Lesson Plan

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 9 Mass: Liquids:

Students will make observations and sort liquid items based on the mass of materials using a balance.  This lesson could also be taught using mathematics instructional time. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

 

Type: Lesson Plan

Max Mass Movers:

In this design challenge, students will explore the measurement of mass and properties of matter as they design a container that can hold the most mass.

Type: Lesson Plan

What's the Matter with a Crayon?:

In this lesson, students will cooperatively measure the mass and volume of three different-colored crayons as a solid. After recording measurements, students will place their crayons in molds in order to change the state of matter from a solid to a liquid through heating. The teacher will pour the liquefied crayon into a graduated cylinder to measure the volume. Following the measurements recording, the liquid will be poured back into the molds and placed in a cool/shaded environment so the crayons will change back into a solid state. Once the crayons re-solidify, the students will take their student-made, tie-dye crayon out of the mold and re-measure it. Lastly, the students will measure and compare their final measurements to the initial measurements.

Type: Lesson Plan

Rampin' It Up:

Students will use their knowledge of properties of materials and measurement of length to determine how the properties of different surfaces affect the distance traveled by a toy car.

Type: Lesson Plan

DOLO - Dinosaurs Only Live Once?:

During this activity, students will create an incubator to save the last dinosaur eggs. Students will use their knowledge of energy to develop a strategy and choose which materials would be best for their dinosaur egg incubator.

Type: Lesson Plan

Is that Estimate Correct?:

In this lesson, students will estimate water volume in three containers and record observations. Following estimations, students will directly measure the volumes using an appropriate method. After comparing those measurements to the estimates, students will be given a known volume of water and will be asked to divide the water into three predetermined volumes, again using estimation skills. A following measurement will be used to determine the difference between their volume estimate and the actual measured volume as distributed across three vessels.

Type: Lesson Plan

Mass and Volume, They Matter!:

In this lesson students will investigate what mass and volume are and how they are measured. Students will practice measuring the masses of solids and volumes of liquids. Students will have a chance to work cooperatively with their peers and apply their knowledge to a real-world problem.

Type: Lesson Plan

Saving Dodgeball:

In this Model-Eliciting Activity (MEA), students are asked to label the properties of different balls that could be used to replace the dodge ball, in order to make the game safer. They are also given cost and profit information, and instructed to rank the balls in order from best replacement to worst. They are then provided with new information, the weight of each ball, as well as three new replacement options. They must then revise their ranking and provide reasoning.

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. MEAs resemble engineering problems and encourage students to create solutions in the form of mathematical and scientific models. Students work in teams to apply their knowledge of science and mathematics to solve an open-ended problem while considering constraints and tradeoffs. Students integrate their ELA skills into MEAs as they are asked to clearly document their thought processes. MEAs follow a problem-based, student-centered approach to learning, where students are encouraged to grapple with the problem while the teacher acts as a facilitator. To learn more about MEAs visit: https://www.cpalms.org/cpalms/mea.aspx

Type: Lesson Plan

Exploring the States of Water:

This is a week long lesson which helps children explore the three states of water: solid, liquid, and gas. Students will explore examples of where and what conditions the states of matter occur and investigate how to collect observations on the various states of water.

Type: Lesson Plan

What a Contrast!:

Students will learn to compare and contrast using texts about the properties of matter. They will learn the signal words for compare and contrast and how to use a compare and contrast graphic organizer. They will write an expository paragraph that compares and contrasts two objects using academic vocabulary.

Type: Lesson Plan

Classifying Candy 1:

Students will develop two binary classification systems using concrete objects. The classification systems will be based on two different properties of the concrete objects.

The task assesses students' abilities to make simple observations and apply their understanding to classification.

This task is designed to take students approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

Type: Lesson Plan

Changing the State of Water: Freezing:

This lesson plan provides students with real life and hands on experience to the freezing process. Students learn what temperature water freezes at and how freezing can affect the environment.

Type: Lesson Plan

Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lessons

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 15 Beat the Heat MEA Part 2: Cooler Experiment:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about describing
the changes water undergoes when it changes state through heating and cooling. This MEA
is divided into four parts. In part 1, students will develop their hypothesis and receive
information on how to set up the cooler experiment. In part 2, students will use ice to test
the coolers they designed in Beat the Heat Engineering Design Lessons. Students will take
measurements and collect data on their cooler. In part 3, students will analyze the data
they collected. Finally, in part 4 they will develop a procedure for selecting the most
effective cooler to keep water frozen the longest at the beach. In the optional twist,
students will need to take the mass of the cooler into account.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 16 Beat the Heat MEA Part 3: Analyzing Cooler Data:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about describing
the changes water undergoes when it changes state through heating and cooling. This MEA
is divided into four parts. In part 1, students will develop their hypothesis and receive
information on how to set up the cooler experiment. In part 2, students will be asked to use
ice to test the coolers they designed in Beat the Heat Engineering Design Lessons.
Students will take measurements and collect data on their cooler. In Part 3 of this activity,
students will analyze the data they collected in Part 2 by drawing and interpreting a scaled
bar graph and line graph. Students will participate in a discussion about how to interpret the
data that was collected. Finally, in part 4 they will develop a procedure for selecting the best
cooler to keep water frozen the longest at the beach. In the optional twist, students will
need to take the mass of the cooler into account.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 17 Beat the Heat MEA Part 4: Ranking Procedure:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about describing
the changes water undergoes when it changes state through heating and cooling. This MEA
is divided into four parts. In part 1, students will develop their hypothesis and receive
information on how to set up the cooler experiment. In part 2, students will be asked to use
ice to test the coolers they designed in Beat the Heat Engineering Design Lessons.
Students will take measurements and collect data on their cooler. In part 3, students will
analyze the data they collected. Finally, in part 4 they will develop a procedure for selecting
the best cooler to keep water frozen the longest at the beach. They will communicate their
findings and procedure via a letter to next year’s class. In the optional twist, students will
need to take the mass of the cooler into account.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 9 Cool Cooler Design Model-Eliciting Activity (MEA):

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about describing
the changes water undergoes when it changes state through heating and cooling. Students
will be asked to rank coolers based on data to solve an open-ended, realistic problem, while
considering constraints and tradeoffs. In the optional twist, students will need to take the
mass of the cooler into account.

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Water. This is a themed unit ofSaM-1's adventures while on a Beach Vacation.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

 

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 23 Model Eliciting Activity: Researching Sea Turtle Nesting Temperatures:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of investigating the natural world, sources of energy, measuring, keeping records, graphing, and communicating information. Students will develop a hypothesis, design an experiment, and support their reasoning to determine how to best study different methods for cooling sea turtle nesting areas. In the optional part 2, students will carry out the experiment that they designed in part 1 and collect data to determine if their hypotheses are supported. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 22 Model Eliciting Activity: Animal Meal Planning:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about physical properties to a realistic problem. Students will be asked to develop a varied diet for a chimpanzee at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center based on the color, shape, texture, and hardness of the food. In the optional twist, students will need to modify their original diet for a senior chimpanzee. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 21 Model Eliciting Activity: Entertaining Animals:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about physical properties and measuring linear lengths to a realistic problem. Students will be asked to design a prototype toy for Florida panthers housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. Students will need to describe the physical properties (color, shape, texture, hardness, length) of the toy while explaining the rationale behind their design choices. In the optional twist, students will need to design a prototype toy suitable for a Florida panther with an injured leg. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Physical Science Unit: Properties Lesson 20 Model Eliciting Activity: Animal Habitats:

In this MEA, students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about physical properties to a realistic problem. Students will be asked to design a habitat for an elephant or gorilla that will be housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. Students will need to describe the physical properties (color, shape, texture, hardness) of the features they selected for the habitat while explaining the rationale behind their design choices. In the optional twist, students will need to modify their design to accommodate a senior elephant or gorilla. 

This is a lesson in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) STEM Lesson

Original Student Tutorials

Devin in the Bakery Part 2: Measuring Mass of Liquids:

Learn how to measure the mass of liquids (and some solids) using containers while Devin helps Chef Kyle in the bakery with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Devin in the Bakery Part 1: Measuring the Mass of Solids:

Learn to measure and compare the mass of solids as Devin helps Chef Kyle in the bakery with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lessons 8 and 9 Video: Mass: Solids and Liquids:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to measure the mass of solids and liquids using a balance.  Students will learn that they need to subtract the mass of the container the solid or liquid is in to determine the mass of only the solid or liquid. Students will then make observations and sort items based on mass.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 17 Video:

This SaM-1 video provides the students with the optional "twist" for Lesson 17 and the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) they have been working on in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation. 

 

To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 2 Video:

In this video students learn that water can change its physical state through the addition or removal of heat. Students will learn the boiling and freezing points of water at standard pressure. They will also review how data can be used to create line graphs and these graphs can show patterns and changes to temperature over time.

This SaM-1 video is to be used with lesson 2 in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation. To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Measure and Compare Temperatures:

Measure and compare temperatures of various things in this interactive tutorial.  Then determine if temperature impacts the melting rate of ice cream.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 23 Video: MEA Researching Sea Turtle Nesting Temperatures:

In this video Sam-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. Students will take their prior experiences from the properties unit and apply their knowledge of investigating sea turtle nesting temperatures.

Students will develop a hypothesis, design an experiment, and support their reasoning to determine how to best study different methods for cooling sea turtle nesting areas.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 22 Video: MEA Animal Meal Planning Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA). In the optional twist, students will need to modify their original diet for a senior chimpanzee. The first video provided meal planning information to add to the knowledge students gained throughout the unit to start the challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 22 Video: MEA Animal Meal Planning:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides meal planning information to add to the knowledge students gained throughout the unit. Students will be asked to develop a varied diet for a chimpanzee at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center based on the color, shape, texture, and hardness of the food.

In the optional twist, students will need to modify their original diet for a senior chimpanzee. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 21 Video: MEA Entertaining Animals Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. In the optional twist, students will need to design a prototype toy suitable for a Florida panther with an injured leg. This first video provides background information on why and how animals need to be entertained.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 21 Video: MEA Entertaining Animals:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides background information on why and how animals need to be entertained. Students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about physical properties and measuring linear lengths as they are asked to design a prototype toy for Florida panthers housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.

In the optional twist, students will need to design a prototype toy suitable for a Florida panther with an injured leg. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 20 Video MEA Animal Habitats Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. In the first video, students were asked to design a habitat for an elephant or gorilla that will be housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. In this twist, students will need to modify their design to accommodate a senior elephant or gorilla.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 20 Video: MEA Animal Habitats:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides habitat information to help the students use the knowledge they gained throughout the unit. Students are asked to design a habitat for an elephant or gorilla that will be housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. Students will need to describe the physical properties (color, shape, texture, hardness) of the features they selected for the habitat while explaining the rationale behind their design choices.

In the optional twist, students will need to modify their design to accommodate a senior elephant or gorilla. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 16 Video: Reading & Recording Temperature:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to make observations based on the property of temperature using thermometers, while representing the data in line graphs.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 15 Video: Observing Sea Turtles:

In this SaM-1 video, students will use their listening and writing skills to learn about sea turtles, preparing them for subsequent lessons in the unit.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 13 Video: Introduction to Displacement :

In this SaM-1 Video, students will learn how to find the volume of irregular objects using a graduated cylinder and the displacement method.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 11 Video: Introduction to Volume:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to use a graduated cylinder to make observations based on the volume of liquids.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 7 Video: Measuring Mass:

Help SaM-1 make observations and sort items based on the mass of materials using a triple-beam balance and equal-arm balance. In this video, you will also become familiar with metric units for measuring mass: gram and kilogram.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 3 Video: Introduction to Length:

In this video, students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length. Students will learn about the metric and customary measurement systems and use line plots to organize and sort data.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 1 Video: Observations:

This SaM-1 video begins the Grade 3 Animals: Rehabilitation and Conservation Center Unit on Physical Properties. Students learn that making observations is an important aspect of scientific study. Students will observe different properties and use these properties throughout the unit.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Presentation/Slideshow

Material Matters: What Materials are Used to Build Airplanes?:

Students will consider how the properties of different materials impact the ways they can be used as they explore this PowerPoint eReader.

Type: Presentation/Slideshow

Teaching Idea

Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties Materials List:

This document is a list of the materials needed for each lesson.  This document is part of a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. 

This is a resource in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Teaching Idea

Unit/Lesson Sequences

Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties Full Unit Teacher Guide:

Download this teacher guide which includes lesson plans, student worksheets and answer keys needed for the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties.

This teacher guide is part of the CPALMS Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Physical properties and physical change in liquids | Inquiry in Action:

In this investigation, students compare the way four known liquids behave, and then apply these observations to identify an unknown liquid. Students then compare how each liquid combines with water and use this property to identify unknown liquids. The activities throughout the investigation emphasize the characteristic properties of liquids, identifying and controlling variables, making observations, and analyzing results to answer a question.

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Physical Properties & Physical Change in Solids | Curious Crystals | Inquiry in Action:

In this investigation, students will carefully look at four known household crystals. After observing and describing the crystals, students will be given an unknown crystal, which is chemically the same as one of the four known crystals but looks different. When students realize that they cannot identify this crystal by its appearance alone, they will suggest other tests and ways to compare the crystals to eventually identify the unknown crystal. The other activities in this investigation are examples of tests students can conduct on the crystals. After a series of these tests, students will gather enough evidence to identify the unknown crystal.

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Look-alike Liquids | Inquiry in Action:

In this introductory activity, students will compare the way water and isopropyl alcohol appear on different surfaces. After seeing that these liquids behave differently, students will be given two other clear colorless liquids - salt water and detergent solution. Students will then test all four liquids on a brown paper towel to discover the differences between them. Through the activities in this investigation, students will see that liquids have characteristic properties that can be used to identify an unknown.

Type: Unit/Lesson Sequence

Virtual Manipulative

Jefferson Lab Coloring Book:

This resource provides a fun and engaging way for you to learn about the world's smallest particle, the quark. A poem accompanies each page in the downloadable coloring book.

Type: Virtual Manipulative

Worksheet

Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Properties Student Workbook:

Download this student workbook which includes all student activities and worksheets needed for the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties.

This workbook is part of the CPALMS Grade 3 Physical Science Unit on Properties. This is a themed unit of SaM-1's adventures at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.  To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx .

Type: Worksheet

Student Resources

Vetted resources students can use to learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Original Student Tutorials

Devin in the Bakery Part 2: Measuring Mass of Liquids:

Learn how to measure the mass of liquids (and some solids) using containers while Devin helps Chef Kyle in the bakery with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Devin in the Bakery Part 1: Measuring the Mass of Solids:

Learn to measure and compare the mass of solids as Devin helps Chef Kyle in the bakery with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lessons 8 and 9 Video: Mass: Solids and Liquids:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to measure the mass of solids and liquids using a balance.  Students will learn that they need to subtract the mass of the container the solid or liquid is in to determine the mass of only the solid or liquid. Students will then make observations and sort items based on mass.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 17 Video:

This SaM-1 video provides the students with the optional "twist" for Lesson 17 and the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) they have been working on in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation. 

 

To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation Lesson 2 Video:

In this video students learn that water can change its physical state through the addition or removal of heat. Students will learn the boiling and freezing points of water at standard pressure. They will also review how data can be used to create line graphs and these graphs can show patterns and changes to temperature over time.

This SaM-1 video is to be used with lesson 2 in the Grade 3 Physical Science Unit: Water Beach Vacation. To see all the lessons in the unit please visit https://www.cpalms.org/page818.aspx.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Measure and Compare Temperatures:

Measure and compare temperatures of various things in this interactive tutorial.  Then determine if temperature impacts the melting rate of ice cream.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 23 Video: MEA Researching Sea Turtle Nesting Temperatures:

In this video Sam-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. Students will take their prior experiences from the properties unit and apply their knowledge of investigating sea turtle nesting temperatures.

Students will develop a hypothesis, design an experiment, and support their reasoning to determine how to best study different methods for cooling sea turtle nesting areas.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 22 Video: MEA Animal Meal Planning Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA). In the optional twist, students will need to modify their original diet for a senior chimpanzee. The first video provided meal planning information to add to the knowledge students gained throughout the unit to start the challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 22 Video: MEA Animal Meal Planning:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides meal planning information to add to the knowledge students gained throughout the unit. Students will be asked to develop a varied diet for a chimpanzee at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center based on the color, shape, texture, and hardness of the food.

In the optional twist, students will need to modify their original diet for a senior chimpanzee. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 21 Video: MEA Entertaining Animals Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. In the optional twist, students will need to design a prototype toy suitable for a Florida panther with an injured leg. This first video provides background information on why and how animals need to be entertained.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 21 Video: MEA Entertaining Animals:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides background information on why and how animals need to be entertained. Students will have the opportunity to apply what they learned about physical properties and measuring linear lengths as they are asked to design a prototype toy for Florida panthers housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center.

In the optional twist, students will need to design a prototype toy suitable for a Florida panther with an injured leg. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 20 Video MEA Animal Habitats Part 2:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a part 2 twist to the Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge. In the first video, students were asked to design a habitat for an elephant or gorilla that will be housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. In this twist, students will need to modify their design to accommodate a senior elephant or gorilla.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 20 Video: MEA Animal Habitats:

In this video, SaM-1 introduces a Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) challenge for the students. This video provides habitat information to help the students use the knowledge they gained throughout the unit. Students are asked to design a habitat for an elephant or gorilla that will be housed at the CPALMS Rehabilitation and Conservation Center. Students will need to describe the physical properties (color, shape, texture, hardness) of the features they selected for the habitat while explaining the rationale behind their design choices.

In the optional twist, students will need to modify their design to accommodate a senior elephant or gorilla. The optional twist also has a SaM-1 video to introduce the twist challenge.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 16 Video: Reading & Recording Temperature:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to make observations based on the property of temperature using thermometers, while representing the data in line graphs.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 15 Video: Observing Sea Turtles:

In this SaM-1 video, students will use their listening and writing skills to learn about sea turtles, preparing them for subsequent lessons in the unit.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 13 Video: Introduction to Displacement :

In this SaM-1 Video, students will learn how to find the volume of irregular objects using a graduated cylinder and the displacement method.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 11 Video: Introduction to Volume:

In this SaM-1 video, students will learn how to use a graduated cylinder to make observations based on the volume of liquids.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 7 Video: Measuring Mass:

Help SaM-1 make observations and sort items based on the mass of materials using a triple-beam balance and equal-arm balance. In this video, you will also become familiar with metric units for measuring mass: gram and kilogram.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 3 Video: Introduction to Length:

In this video, students will make observations based on the property of size, specifically length. Students will learn about the metric and customary measurement systems and use line plots to organize and sort data.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Lesson 1 Video: Observations:

This SaM-1 video begins the Grade 3 Animals: Rehabilitation and Conservation Center Unit on Physical Properties. Students learn that making observations is an important aspect of scientific study. Students will observe different properties and use these properties throughout the unit.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Virtual Manipulative

Jefferson Lab Coloring Book:

This resource provides a fun and engaging way for you to learn about the world's smallest particle, the quark. A poem accompanies each page in the downloadable coloring book.

Type: Virtual Manipulative

Parent Resources

Vetted resources caregivers can use to help students learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Virtual Manipulative

Jefferson Lab Coloring Book:

This resource provides a fun and engaging way for you to learn about the world's smallest particle, the quark. A poem accompanies each page in the downloadable coloring book.

Type: Virtual Manipulative