The Properties of Materials: Concept Map
≈ 24 minConcept Map
Organise the vocabulary, quantities and relationships into a connected model.
This extension applies that lens specifically to The Properties of Materials.
A property is a word that describes what a material is like. Materials can be:
- hard or soft;
- strong or weak;
- flexible (bendy) or stiff;
- rough or smooth;
- transparent (see-through) or opaque (not see-through);
- waterproof or absorbent (soaks up water).
We find a material's properties by testing it. Press it — is it hard or soft? Try to bend it — flexible or stiff? Pour a little water on it — waterproof or absorbent? Hold it up to the light — transparent or opaque?
Worked example. Why is a raincoat made of plastic and not paper?
Plastic is waterproof and flexible, so the rain runs off and you can still bend and move. Paper is absorbent — it soaks up water and quickly falls apart. The property 'waterproof' is what makes plastic the right choice.
Natural Sciences — Grade 4 — Concept Map: Glass lets you see straight through it. Which property word means 'see-through'?
Natural Sciences — Grade 4 — Concept Map: A rubber band and a metal spring are useful because they can bend and then spring back. Which property is this?
Natural Sciences — Grade 4 — Concept Map: A raincoat keeps you dry because rain cannot pass through the plastic. What property is this?
Name the original topic being extended by this concept map lesson.
Which statement is the best evidence-led starting point for The Properties of Materials: Concept Map?