Recovering insoluble solids
I can describe how to separate an insoluble solid from a liquid.
Recovering insoluble solids
I can describe how to separate an insoluble solid from a liquid.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Some solids do not dissolve in liquids; these are called insoluble solids.
- A sieve is a type of filter that can be used to separate larger insoluble solids from a liquid.
- Different types of filters can be used to separate insoluble solids from liquids or gases.
- We use filters in everyday life to separate mixtures of solids and liquids.
Keywords
Dissolve - If a solid dissolves in a liquid, it mixes completely with the liquid so that you can no longer see it.
Insoluble - Solids or gases that do not dissolve in a liquid are called insoluble.
Separate - To separate something means to divide it into different parts or groups.
Filter - To filter means to pour a mixture of liquid and solid through a fine mesh to separate the solid particles from the liquid.
Sieve - A sieve is a tool with a mesh of holes that lets smaller pieces pass through while keeping larger pieces behind.
Common misconception
Insoluble and soluble solids are separated from liquids using the same methods: dissolved solids, like salt and sugar, can be removed from solution by filtering.
Methods specific to the separation of insoluble solids are taught and applied in this lesson. Task A will help pupils understand that filtering does not separate dissolved solids, like salt and sugar, from a solution.
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: Recovering insoluble solids, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: Recovering insoluble solids, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Properties, changes and separating materials unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
See additional materials.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions



can be dissolved in water or another liquid
cannot be dissolved in water or another liquid
Exit quiz
6 Questions


