This week you learned about materials and their properties. People pick materials because of their properties. That is why things are made the way they are!
A raincoat is made of plastic because plastic does not soak up water. A towel is made of cloth because cloth is absorbent. A hammer is made of metal because metal is hard and strong. A pillow is soft so your head is comfy.
When builders and inventors make something new, they ask, "What is the best material for this job?" They think about the properties they need. Today you will match materials to jobs, just like an inventor!
1. Why is a raincoat made of plastic?
2. Why is a towel made of cloth?
3. What question do inventors ask when making something new?
4. Would a glass pillow be a good idea? Why or why not?
Pick the best material for each job: metal, cloth, glass, plastic, wood, paper. Then write the property that makes it best.
| Job | Best material | Why? (property) |
|---|---|---|
| A window you can see through | ||
| A cozy blanket | ||
| A strong nail | ||
| A bendy drinking straw | ||
| A sturdy table | ||
| A napkin to wipe spills |
Write T for true or F for false in each circle.
1. Which is the most flexible? ROCK / RUBBER BAND / GLASS
2. Which is the most absorbent? SPONGE / SPOON / COIN
3. Which is the hardest? PILLOW / MARBLE / TISSUE
4. Which is the smoothest? SANDPAPER / MIRROR / TREE BARK
Invent a new object! Maybe a robot pet or a super lunchbox. Choose the materials and tell why each one is right for the job.
My invention is called:
| Part of my invention | Material I chose | Why this material? |
|---|---|---|
Write today's date in your journal. Then finish these sentences:
The best material for a boot would be ________________ because:
| Skill | How did I do? Circle one |
|---|---|
| I can name common materials. | GREAT / OK / NEED PRACTICE |
| I can describe properties. | GREAT / OK / NEED PRACTICE |
| I can match materials to jobs. | GREAT / OK / NEED PRACTICE |
Look at your dinner table tonight. Name the material of three things on it. Next week we will explore hard, soft, rough, and smooth even more!