Properties of solids, liquids and gases
I can describe simple properties of solids, liquids and gases.
Properties of solids, liquids and gases
I can describe simple properties of solids, liquids and gases.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Substances can exist as different states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.
- Solids, liquids and gases have different properties.
- A solid has a fixed shape and volume but some solids can change shape when a force is applied.
- Liquids can be poured easily and take the shape of the bottom of the container that they are in.
- Gases are often invisible. They escape from an unsealed container and have no fixed shape or volume.
Keywords
States of matter - The three common states of matter are solid, liquid and gas.
Solid - A solid has a fixed shape and volume but some solids can change shape when a force is applied.
Liquid - A liquid can flow, has a fixed volume and takes the shape of the bottom of its container.
Gas - A gas can flow, has no fixed volume and takes the shape of the whole of its container.
Properties - The properties of a material or substance are its qualities or things it can do.
Common misconception
A material can only exist as a solid, liquid or gas, rather than having different forms at different temperatures. Gases have no mass or volume.
Teaching slides explain that most materials can exist in different states and that gases have a mass and volume. Investigations help children explore the properties of materials in different states.
Equipment
Water balloons, access to a freezer, water.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
cannot be squashed
can be squashed
Exit quiz
6 Questions
