Physical Science · Matter
Physical & Chemical Changes
Compare properties before and after physical changes and a safe simulated mixing investigation. Use multiple observations to decide whether the evidence is consistent with new substances forming.
Teacher workspace
Start with the lesson plan.
55 min~12 min prep6 materialsNGSS verified · 5-PS1-4
Lesson Plan
Plan with confidence
Lesson overview
What students will learn
- Compare observable properties before and after mixing to identify evidence that a new substance may have formed.
- Plan a fair mixing investigation by changing the intended condition while keeping important variables the same and recording before-and-after observations.
Key science ideas
- Melting, freezing, cutting, and dissolving can change how matter looks without necessarily making a new substance.
- Some mixtures produce evidence that new substances formed.
- Possible evidence includes gas production, an unexpected temperature change, a persistent color change, or formation of a new solid.
Lesson at a glance
- Grade 5
- 55 min
- ~12 min prep
- 5-PS1-4
- 6 materials
What’s included
- Lesson Plan
- Investigation
- Teacher Slides
- Printable Worksheet
- Teacher Answer Key
- Interactive Activity
- Vocabulary