If a solid dissolves in a liquid, it mixes so completely with the liquid that it cannot be seen.

A liquid can flow and take the shape of the bottom of its container.

A material that will dissolve is soluble.

A material that will not dissolve is insoluble.

Soluble and insoluble

Science

In this Properties, changes and separating materials unit, pupils learn to decide how mixtures might be separated, including through filtering, sieving and evaporating. In the Materials challenge unit, they will build on this knowledge to apply their understanding of separating materials to a wider range of everyday situations

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 Properties, changes and separating materials, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare an group together everyday materials on the basis of a wider variety of properties

This unit explores the properties of everyday materials, including hardness, solubility, and conductivity. It covers reversible changes like dissolving and mixing, and irreversible changes such as burning. Emphasis is on scientific enquiries, data recording, and presenting findings with evidence.

Properties, changes and separating materials

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Some solids dissolve in liquids to form a... 

Because its pieces are too small and too spread out to be seen.

Because it melts, making it harder to see.

When a solid dissolves in a liquid, why can’t we see it anymore?  

What do you call a substance that dissolves in a liquid? 

What do you call a substance that does not dissolve in a liquid? 

Which of these is a gas at room temperature?

In which state do materials take the shape of the container they are held in? 

Match the form of water to the temperature range at which you would find it. 

Which of these materials would be the best thermal conductor? 

On a warm sunny day, if you put a scarf and hat on a snowman, how would it affect the speed the snowman melted?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet