Explore Science: States of Matter

Learn all about the states of States of Matter with four lessons and 11 hands-on activities. Each lesson takes about an hour to complete.

Explore Science: States of Matter

• Lesson 1: The Three Common States of Matter — Learn what matter is, the differences among the three common states of matter, and how to classify substances as solid, liquid, or gas.
• Estimated Lesson Time: 50 min 
• 2 Activities: The Changing States of Matter & The Matter Song
• Lesson 2: Solid Matter— Discover how the way molecules are organized determines the state of matter. Change a solid into a liquid, and learn about mass. 
• Estimated Lesson Time: 60 min
• 2 Activities: Make a Solid From a Liquid & Molecules in a Solid Worksheet
• Lesson 3: Liquid Matter — Explore how molecules in a liquid behave, how to turn a solid into a liquid, and whether a liquid can change back into a solid. 
• Estimated Lesson Time: 60 min
• 3 Activities: Yummy Melts, A Mess to Learn From & Molecules in a Liquid Worksheet
• Lesson 4: Gas Matter — Investigate how molecules behave in a gas and whether a liquid can turn into a gas. 
• Estimated Lesson Time: 60 min
• 3 Activities: Gas at Work, Another Mess to Learn From & Molecules in a Gas Worksheet

What is Explore Science?

From Home Science Tools, Explore Science is a new topical curriculum for grades K-2.

Based on the 5E teaching model, lessons begin with hands-on activities. Standalone one-box kits provide a month of science at roughly one lesson per week.

What can I expect from each Explore Science unit?

• 1-4 hands-on activities per lesson
• 4-6 lessons per unit
• 1 month of K-2 science instruction
• Curriculum + activity supplies in one box
• Step-by-step teaching guide with discussion Q&A

Where do I start?

We recommend using  Explore Science: An Intro to Scientific Skills first. It includes concepts, vocabulary, and materials needed for other units.

What are the 5Es?

• Engage students.
• Explore key concepts.
• Explain new discoveries.
• Extend student learning.
• Evaluate new understanding. 

Note: This kit is intended for parent/teacher use to complete curriculum lab activities with students. It includes items that are not designed or intended primarily for children ages 12 and under.

Explore Science: States of Matter

• 1 Wax pencil (marks glass)
• 1 Balloons, medium, 9"
• 1 Stirring rod, glass, 10"
• 1 Candle, tea light
• 1 Glass jar, 16 oz 
• 1 Explore Science: States of Matter text, 52 pages
• 2 Hershey milk chocolate bar
• 1 Small mass set, hexagon