Eighth graders learn to classify matter — elements (one kind of atom), compounds (elements chemically bonded), and mixtures (substances physically combined) — and how mixtures, unlike compounds, can be separated.
Students will be able to…
Gold, water, and trail mix are all “stuff” — but they’re fundamentally different kinds. How do scientists sort ALL matter into just a few basic categories?
Project this and tap each type of matter. Have students learn to classify substances as elements, compounds, or mixtures!
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
Gold, water, and trail mix are all different kinds — how do we sort matter?
Students investigate.
Students explain.
Students elaborate.
Students conclude.
Aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (Middle School Physical Science).
Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and substances.
Analyze data on the properties of substances before and after mixing.
Gather information on synthetic materials from natural resources.
Developing and using models.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students design a procedure to separate a mixture of sand, salt, and iron filings using a magnet, water, and evaporation. A printable classifying-matter sheet is in the Science library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.