Chapter 2 Introduction to Matter
Section 1 - Describing Matter
Throughout this section students will identify both the physical and chemical properties used to describe matter such as physical state, texture, flexibility, ability to react, flammability, and formation of new substances. Students will then define what an element is and explain how they relate to compounds. Finally students will describe the properties of a mixture and learn the different steps that can be taken to separate different types of mixtures.
Section 2 - Measuring Matter
During this lesson students will learn to differentiate between weight and mass. We will review the International System of Units of Measurement or "SI" that was covered in the beginning of the year. They will identify the units specifically used to express the amount of space occupied by matter (volume) and then learn the equation used to calculate density (Mass/Volume = Density). They will then describe how the density of a material is determined and practice finding the density of various objects.
The Density Column
Students will put their knowledge and estimating skills to the test to predict what liquids and objects are more dense than others in the Density Column Lab. After students have had the opportunity to touch and handle various objects and liquids we will insert them one at a time into a large 500 ml graduated cylinder to find out if their predictions are correct.
Making Sense of Density Lab
In this lab students will find the volume and mass of various objects such as a stick, crayon, and playdough. Their goal is to find out if the density of a material varies with the volume of the object being measured. Students will use graduated cylinders and scales to record measurements and test their hypotheses.
Section 3 - Changes in Matter
In Section 3 students will learn the difference between Physical Changes: changes in state and changes in form, and Chemical changes: combustion, electrolysis, oxidation, and tarnishing. Students will also review the Law of Conservation of Mass with a water bottle, alka-seltzer, and balloon demo. Finally students will explain how changes in matter are related to changes in energy by learning about endothermic and exothermic reactions.
