In 2nd grade it is very important for learners at this age to dive deeper into the world around them. The properties of matter are the basis for future science learning. Students start with this topic in Kinder and deepen in its complexity as they move up in each  grade. Exploring matter encourages students to observe and inquire and gives opportunities for students to practice critical thinking and observation skills.

Lesson 1: Observing Properties—Matter

In this lesson, children will be introduced to the different  states of matters there are in the world. Children will observe the properties of different objects including their size, shape, color, and texture. 

Activity Overview:

• Observing Properties of Objects: Start off with a fun video teaching how to observe the similarities and differences in various objects. 
• Physical Properties of Matter Worksheet: Students are introduced to liquid, solid, and gas states of matter and use riddles to explore the different properties. 
• Observing Properties Worksheet: Work with children to observe, identify and check off the property words that describe each object.

Brain Break 

With a complex concept like the properties of matter, sometimes children just need a different way to view the topic. This fun brain break gets children up and moving but also connecting their body to thes properties of matter they just learned about. 

Lesson 2: Solids and Liquids

In this lesson, children will take a closer look at the two primary states of matter that they interact with everyday. Students will discover the different characteristics of these properties. 

Activity Overview: 

• Physical Science: States of Matter Worksheet: Sort the objects between solid, liquid, and gas. Compare the worksheet examples to everyday objects around in your environment. 

• Matter All Around  Worksheet: Refresh students about matter and trace the correct form of matter to each picture.

Brain Break

This brain break  is a fun catchy way to review the types of matter and will give students an opportunity to move around and take a break.  

Lesson 3: Heating and Cooling

After learning about the properties of matter, students can explore further and observe how the states can change back and forth. They will learn more about freezing and melting and how these changes work. They will also learn to tell the difference between reversible and irreversible changes. 

Activity Overview:

• Changing States of Matter: Review the states of matter in this fun video with great visuals.

• Reversible Irreversible Changes Worksheets: Children will learn that heating or cooling some substances will cause physical changes through real life examples, observing whether  they are reversible or irreversible changes. 

• States of Matter: Freezing and Melting Worksheet: Look through the pictures and identify what changes of state there and trace with a dotted line.  

Brain Break

Students will dance and count the different characteristics of matter. Wrap up today’s lesson with this last fun song to review the properties of matter.  

By exploring concepts like solids, liquids, and gasses, students will gain a better understanding of the world around them and how matter is in everyday life. These lessons help build critical thinking and observation skills  creating a space for curiosity and passion for science.

Do you have a learner who is more independent? While these lessons are designed for guided learning, check out  our Talented and Gifted Online web app for more independent activities. This resource offers a variety of enriching activities tailored for advanced learners, ensuring they remain challenged and engaged!