An object is something you can touch but something that is not usually a living thing.

We compare things by looking at what is the same and what is different.

A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.

When we describe, we say or write what someone or something is like.

The describing words we use for a material are called its properties.

Materials and their uses

Science

In this Uses of everyday materials unit, pupils learnt that the shapes of some solid materials can be changed in different ways. In the Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, they will build on this knowledge to observe that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to identify and name a variety of everyday materials. In this Uses of everyday materials unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare the suitability of everyday materials for particular uses

Uses of everyday materials

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

What do we call words that describe materials?

Which of these are properties of materials?

When we compare objects, we ask two questions. The first question is what is the same. What is the second question?

Objects are made from different materials depending on their use. Why is this chair made from metal?

Which of these objects is made from plastic?

Which of these objects is made from wood?

True or false? All objects are only made from one material.

All objects are made from the same material.

Some objects are made from different materials.

All objects are made from different materials.

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Materials and their uses

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.