FREE PRIMARY SCIENCE · Years 5–6 (challenge)
Challenge: Particle puzzles
Can an invisible model of tiny particles solve real mysteries about mixing, mixtures and new substances?
An extension topic for students who are ready to think further. Builds on: Solids, liquids and gases (Year 5) and Change detectives (Years 5–6). Lesson 1 uses supplied data to solve the mystery of the missing millilitres with the particle model (a preview of Year 7). Lesson 2 sorts elements, compounds and mixtures and sets a ‘be the engineer’ separation challenge (Years 7 and 8). Lesson 3 is a hands-on judging task: is each change physical or chemical, and what is the best evidence (Year 8)? Lessons 1 and 2 are iPad-only; lesson 3 uses bicarb soda, vinegar, salt and ice.
3 free lessons · Australian Curriculum v9
Lessons in this topic
Each lesson includes a teacher plan and activities. Check its materials label before teaching.
The case of the missing millilitres
How can 50 mL plus 50 mL make less than 100 mL?
Open free interactive lesson →Element, compound or mixture?
How can particle pictures tell us whether something is an element, a compound or a mixture, and how do we separate a mixture?
Open free interactive lesson →Physical or chemical? You be the judge
What is the best evidence that a new substance has formed?
Open free interactive lesson →
How to use these lessons
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