Exploring Object Properties

Curriculum Area

Grade 1 Science – Matter and Energy
Aligned with the Ontario Science Curriculum (2022), this lesson helps students investigate measurable properties of objects, including length, area, and weight (mass).

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Identify and describe measurable properties of objects (length, area, weight).
• Use hands-on exploration to observe how properties can be altered.
• Explain findings through drawings and written explanations.

Materials

• Picture book: "What is Heavy? What is Light?" by Jennifer Boothroyd
• Various classroom objects (wooden blocks, books, feathers, marbles, toy cars, cotton balls, sponges)
• Rulers and non-standard measuring tools (paper clips, cubes)
• Balance scales
• Large sheets of paper for group work

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Lesson Breakdown (40 Minutes)

1. Book & Discussion (10 Minutes)

📖 Engage & Spark Curiosity
Start by reading "What is Heavy? What is Light?" aloud. Pause on pages showing different objects being compared. Ask:

• "What do we mean when we say something is heavy or light?"
• "How do we know if something is big or small?"
• "Can we change the size or weight of objects?"

Encourage students to share experiences of lifting or moving objects. This activates prior knowledge and builds curiosity.

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2. Hands-On Exploration (20 Minutes)

👋 Investigate the Properties of Objects
Divide students into small groups and provide them with various objects from the materials list.

Station 1: Measuring Length

• Use rulers or non-standard tools (paper clips, cubes) to measure different objects.
• Ask: "Which object is the longest? Which is the shortest?"

Station 2: Measuring Area

• Place objects on grid paper and count how many squares they cover.
• Ask: "Which object covers the most space? Why?"

Station 3: Measuring Weight (Mass)

• Use balance scales to compare object weights.
• Ask: "Which object is heavier? Which is lighter? How can we tell?"

Encourage students to predict outcomes before measuring and compare results after.

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3. Writing & Reflection (10 Minutes)

✏ Apply Understanding Through Writing
Each student receives a worksheet with prompts:

• Draw two objects you explored. Describe their properties.
• How did you measure their length, area, or weight?
• What surprised you the most about your findings?

Students use simple words and pictures to show understanding.

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Teacher Notes & Assessment

✔ Observation: Listen during discussions; note students' ability to describe objects.
✔ Hands-on work: Check for use of tools and measurement accuracy.
✔ Written reflection: Assess understanding of measurable properties and ability to explain changes.

Extension Idea: Ask, “How can we change the properties of objects?” (e.g., cut paper to change area, stack objects to change height, combine items to change weight).

This lesson provides structured, engaging, hands-on learning, ensuring deep understanding of physical properties in a fun, accessible way! 🎉