No Simple Matter: Advice on Leading Students to a Deeper Understanding of the Three States of Matter

Authors

Sarah Whipple, Norwalk Eastview School
Patrick Rodenborn, Iowa State University

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The following is an activity that utilizes the learning cycle to actively engage students in constructing a deep understanding of the states of matter. Students initially explore properties of solids, liquids, and gases through concrete experiences with familiar materials. Science jargon is appropriately delayed until after students have accurately interpreted their experiences. During the application phase students employ their knowledge of the states of matter to investigate the characteristics of an unusual substance to try to identify its state of matter. Key nature of science ideas are explicitly addressed throughout the activity. This article promotes National Science Education Standards A, B, and G, and Iowa Teaching Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Publication Date

Winter 2008

Journal Title

Iowa Science Teachers Journal

Volume

35

Issue

1

First Page

16

Last Page

20

Copyright

© Copyright 2008 by the Iowa Academy of Science

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

Recommended Citation

Whipple, Sarah and Rodenborn, Patrick (2008) "No Simple Matter: Advice on Leading Students to a Deeper Understanding of the Three States of Matter," Iowa Science Teachers Journal: Vol. 35: No. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://scholarworks.uni.edu/istj/vol35/iss1/6