In Year 1, we have started an exciting new science topic all about materials. We began by learning what an object is. We discovered that an object is something you can see and touch, but it is not alive. To help us understand, our teachers gave us fun instructions like “stand next to a red object” and “stand next to an object that is taller than you.” We enjoyed moving around and noticing the different objects all around our classroom.
We then took our learning outside. In the forest we tried to spot objects, but this was a little more challenging because there are so many living things there! We had to use our scientific thinking to decide which things were objects and which were alive.
Next, we learned that objects are made from materials. We explored common materials such as wood, glass, plastic, metal, rock, and even water. We searched our classroom to find objects made from each material and discovered just how many different materials are used in everyday things. Using our computing skills, we took photographs of what we found and uploaded our work to Seesaw to share our learning.
Next week, our investigation continues! We will be finding out which materials can be recycled and how recycling helps us to take care of our planet. We’ll use our scientific enquiry skills to sort and classify objects based on whether they can be recycled and used again.
We are already becoming brilliant young scientists, and we can’t wait to learn more!
How to Help at Home
Here are some simple ways families can support our learning about materials:
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Spot materials around the house – Look at everyday objects and talk about what they are made from. Is it wood? Plastic? Metal?
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Sort the recycling together – Talk about why certain materials like paper, glass, and some plastics can be recycled.
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Play a guessing game – Choose an object and describe its material (“It’s smooth and see-through”) while your child guesses what it might be.
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Discuss living vs. non-living – When out and about, help your child decide whether something is an object or a living thing.
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Reuse items creatively – Try using old boxes, pots, or bottles for crafts to show how materials can be used again.