A solid has a fixed shape and volume but some solids can change shape when a force is applied.

A liquid can flow, has a fixed volume and takes the shape of the bottom of its container.

The melting temperature of a material is the temperature at which it changes from solid state to liquid state.

Temperature is measured in degrees celsius (°C).

Melting temperatures: plan

Science

In this Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils learn that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled. In the Properties, changes and separating materials unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn that dissolving, mixing and changes of state are reversible changes

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties. In this Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare and group materials together according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases

Introduction to states of matter and changing states

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

The process in which a solid changes to a __________ is called melting.

Which of the following statements about ice are true?

Which phrase describes the temperature at which a material changes from its solid state to its liquid state? 

Materials in which states of mater have fixed volumes?

All materials have the same melting temperature.  

Different materials have different melting temperatures. 

The melting temperature of any material is changeable.

Which of the following statements about melting temperatures are true?

They use their knowledge of melting temperatures to design and build products.

They ask questions and plan enquiries into the melting temperature of materials

They use their knowledge of melting temperatures to design recipes.

How does the work of scientists relate to melting temperatures?  

When a substance changes from a solid state to a liquid state, we say that it is... 

A thermometer is an instrument that measures...

What instrument could you use, with a temperature sensor, to monitor and record temperature over a long period of time?

Which state of matter has a fixed volume and a fixed shape? 

Starting with the first, put these activities in the order a scientist would do them.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz