Investigating Unknown Solids Getting Ready

As a way to build on the concept of properties introduced in Lesson 1, students observe and describe the properties of classroom objects. This experience will improve students ability to observe the properties of the five unknowns (which are common household chemicals) that they will use in Lesson 3. Students also are introduced to the tools they will use to conduct their investigations of these chemicals. 

In preparation for this lesson you will need to organize the materials for the entire unit. While this preparation takes more time than usual, it will help save you time In lessons to come. (You may want to ask another adult to assist with this preparation, the lesson itself, or both.) 

The cleanup and pall storage areas can be part of the materials center or separate, depending on your classroom space. 

Throughout the unit, students probably will complete activities at different rates. Students who finish early can use their free time to link their experiences to language arts. One way to do this is to read mysteries. (See the Bibliography for a list of mystery books appropriate for third-graders.) 

Note Your students will be working in teams of two from now through Lesson 10. (See Teaching Chemical Tests on pg. 7 for information on effective team building.) 

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