Physical Science · Matter
Conservation of Matter
Measure the same complete setup before and after matter changes form or mixes, then use the data to explain what stayed the same and why a scale reading can change when matter leaves what is being measured.
Teacher workspace
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52 min~12 min prep8 materialsNGSS verified · 5-PS1-2
Lesson Plan
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Lesson overview
What students will learn
- I can measure and compare the mass of the same complete setup before and after a change.
- I can use numerical evidence and a system model to explain conservation of matter, including an apparent loss when matter leaves what is being measured.
Key science ideas
- Matter can dissolve, melt, freeze, mix, break apart, or spread out and still be present.
- To test conservation, compare the same complete setup before and after a change.
- Measurements are stronger evidence than appearance alone.
Lesson at a glance
- Grade 5
- 52 min
- ~12 min prep
- 5-PS1-2
- 8 materials
What’s included
- Lesson Plan
- Investigation
- Teacher Slides
- Printable Worksheet
- Teacher Answer Key
- Interactive Activity
- Vocabulary