Chapter 6 — Properties of Matter
Teacher Activity
Drop a wooden block and a steel bolt into water simultaneously. Ask: "What determines whether an object floats or sinks? Write a prediction in your journal before we test anything."
Student Activity
Observe the demonstration. Write a hypothesis in their science journal. Share with a partner and note agreements or disagreements.
Teacher Activity
Issue materials and the data recording sheet. Circulate and prompt thinking: "What happens if you change the shape of the clay? Does mass alone decide it?" Avoid giving answers.
Student Activity
Test each object. Record: float/sink result, mass (g), volume (cm³), and calculated density (mass ÷ volume). Repeat with clay reshaped into a boat.
Teacher Activity
Guide the class to compile results into a shared table on the board. Ask: "Is there a pattern between your density values and whether the object floated? What is the boundary value?"
Student Activity
Compare group data. Identify the pattern: objects with density < 1 g/cm³ float in water. Record the pattern and any exceptions.
Teacher Activity
Facilitate a whole-class discussion. Formally introduce the term "density." Connect the student-discovered boundary (1 g/cm³) to the density of water.
Student Activity
Write a conclusion that directly answers the original question using the word "density" and at least one specific example from their data.
Teacher Activity
Ask each group to share one surprising finding. Pose an extension challenge: "A steel ship is made of the same steel as our bolt — why does it float?"
Student Activity
Present one finding to the class. Listen to peers and ask at least one question to another group. Attempt the extension challenge in the journal.
Assessment Methods
Written explanation (5–7 sentences): "Using density, explain why a massive steel ship floats while a solid steel ball of the same mass sinks."
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