Lesson Plan: Changing States - Art and Craft in Design and Technology
Duration
90 minutes
Age Group
Key Stage 2 (7-11 years)
Lesson Objectives
- Understand the concept of changing states (solid, liquid, gas) through practical activities.
- Explore various materials and their changing states in art and craft projects.
- Develop creativity and critical thinking skills through design processes.
- Encourage teamwork and collaborative work among students.
Materials Needed
- Ice cubes (for demonstration)
- Heat sources (hot plates, hairdryers) - ensure safety protocols are followed
- Balloons (representing gases)
- Plastic cups
- Water
- Modelling clay or dough
- Paper, scissors, and glue
- Paint and brushes
- Pencils and erasers
Lesson Outline
Introduction (15 minutes)
-
Introduction to Changing States
- Begin with a discussion on the three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. Ask students if they can name some examples for each state.
- In a group format, demonstrate the transformation of an ice cube from solid to liquid by placing it on a hot plate. Discuss what happens to the water when heated.
-
Real-life Applications
- Discuss everyday situations where changing states occurs (e.g., melting chocolate, boiling water, condensation). Highlight how these changes can be explored through art and craft.
Main Activity (60 minutes)
-
Creative Project: Crafting with Changing States
- Step 1: Divide the class into small groups of 4-5 students.
- Step 2: Each group will choose a specific changing state to represent through a creative project. Options include:
- Solid to Liquid: Creating a melting ice sculpture using modelling clay.
- Liquid to Gas: Designing a piece of artwork that incorporates balloons to demonstrate the filling of gas.
- Solid to Gas: Making a paper craft that represents vapour or steam using painted paper.
- Step 3: Groups will brainstorm their project ideas and sketch a draft before beginning their work.
-
Group Work
- Provide materials to each group and allow them 45 minutes to create their projects, encouraging students to collaborate and share ideas.
- Circulate around the room, offering guidance and support as needed.
Conclusion and Reflection (15 minutes)
-
Presentations
- Allow each group 2-3 minutes to present their project to the class, explaining their chosen state, the materials used, and the process they followed.
- Encourage positive feedback and peer-to-peer questions.
-
Class Discussion
- Facilitate a reflection on what they learned about changing states during the lesson. Prompt questions such as:
- What surprised you about the materials?
- How did your understanding of changing states influence your design?
-
Wrap-up
- Conclude the lesson by summarising the key concepts learned and emphasising the connection between science and art in design and technology.
Assessment
- Informal assessment based on group participation and engagement in discussions.
- Evaluate the creativity and understanding reflected in their projects during presentations.
Health & Safety Considerations
- Ensure all materials used in crafting are non-toxic and safe for children.
- Supervise the use of heat sources and ensure safety measures are in place.
- Encourage proper hygiene practices during the lesson (e.g., handwashing).
Extensions
- Suggest further exploration at home by encouraging students to observe and document examples of changing states in their everyday environment.
- Consider organising a gallery showcase of the students’ projects to share with parents and the school community.
This lesson plan aims to foster creativity while enhancing understanding of scientific concepts through hands-on learning in design and technology.