All lessons › Material choices › Lesson 1
Australian primary science · Years 3–4 · Lesson 1 of 3
Match the material
Inquiry question: Which material is best for each job?
Marked no materials needed
Classifying
What students learn
Every material has properties, like being hard, bendy, waterproof or see-through. We choose a material because its properties suit the job.
Success criteria
- I can name a property of a material.
- I can choose a good material for a job.
- I can explain my choice using a property.
Preparation and materials
Before this lesson: Students can name common materials such as wood, metal, plastic, glass and fabric.
- iPads with Bottlebrush Education open (nothing else needed) — 13 (one per pair)
- Projector or big screen — 1
Teacher setup
- Open Materials & chemistry › Lab › Material match-up on your screen to demonstrate.
- Check the iPads are charged.
Safety and adaptations
Follow school science and equipment risk assessment procedures for the materials used.
Review your school policies and curriculum requirements before teaching.
How to investigate
The lesson sequence should leave pupils with evidence to interpret, not only an activity to finish.
- Pairs open Material match-up.
- For each job, choose a material and check the feedback.
- Record the job, the material and the property that helps.
- Find one job where two materials could both work.
Teacher modelling prompt
Do one job together on the big screen: “A raincoat needs to keep rain off and bend as you move. So it needs to be waterproof and flexible. Plastic has both properties.”
Record and explain evidence
Recording question: Which material is best for each job, and why?
| Job | Material we chose | Property that helps |
|---|---|---|
| ________________ | ________________ | ________________ |
Example recording headings; record actual observations, including inconclusive results.
Discussion prompt
Which property matters most for a window, and why?
Check understanding
What should pupils know? What is a property of a material? Give an example.
Explain with evidence: Why is rubber a good material for a car tyre?
Apply the idea: Choose a material for a lunchbox. Name two properties that make it a good choice.
Teacher answer guidance and saved classroom work are available through the main lesson experience where supported.