Georgia S8P1.c
The Standard
Plan and carry out investigations to compare and contrast chemical (i.e., reactivity, combustibility) and physical (i.e., density, melting point, boiling point) properties of matter.
Georgia Standards of Excellence for Science · Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the structure and properties of matter.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students plan fair tests that measure properties or observe how samples respond under set conditions. They identify variables, follow safety rules, record data, and use results to separate physical evidence from chemical evidence.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student writes a testable question, names variables and controls, and creates a repeatable procedure with a clear data table. The student compares samples using measurements and observed reactions, then supports each property classification with evidence.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may call any visible change chemical, including melting, boiling, cutting, or dissolving. They may think density changes with sample size, or treat fizzing as proof without checking whether gas formed. Some judge reactivity or combustibility from appearance instead of using safe tests or reliable data.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Give students density data and note that one sample fizzed in vinegar. Ask them to name one physical property, one chemical property, and the evidence for each.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Groups plan fair tests for chalk, wax, and plastic, measuring density and observing each sample in vinegar while recording variables, data, and safety steps.
Ask, "Why is density measurable without changing a substance, while reactivity requires trying to form new substances?" Students cite evidence from their tests.
Run a card sort with copper color, candle wax melting, and antacid fizzing, then have students defend each physical or chemical property classification.
Give data cards for aluminum, iron, and copper, then have students recommend a camping pot material using density, melting point, and reactivity evidence.
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Printable S8P1.c Worksheet
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Related Standards
- S5P1.c
Plan and carry out an investigation to determine if a chemical change occurred based on observable evidence (color, gas, temperature change, odor, new substance...
- S5P1
Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain the differences between a physical change and a chemical change.
- S2P1
Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the properties of matter and changes that occur in objects.
- S5P1.a
Plan and carry out investigations of physical changes by manipulating, separating and mixing dry and liquid materials.
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