The Same Parts Can Make Many Objects

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

Subject Area

Science

Grade(s)

2

Overview

In this lesson, students will be able to explain that the parts of an object can be rearranged to create a new object. Students will also get a sense of the number of different objects that can be created from a small number of parts and will apply this to modeling atoms and molecules.

Student groups are given four snap cubes and guided to use the four cubes to make eight different objects. Each student is given a picture of one of the possible 29 different objects that can be built from five snap cubes and students build their object. After students build their objects, all 29 are displayed for the class to see. Students do an anagram activity to see that letters can be rearranged to make different words, just like atoms can be rearranged to make different molecules.

Science (2015) Grade(s): 2

SC15.2.3

Demonstrate and explain how structures made from small pieces (e.g., linking cubes, blocks, building bricks, creative construction toys) can be disassembled and then rearranged to make new and different structures.

UP:SC15.2.3

Vocabulary

  • Demonstrate
  • Explain
  • Structure
  • Pieces
  • Disassemble
  • Rearrange
  • Different

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Different properties are suited for different purposes.
  • A great variety of objects can be built up from a small set of pieces.
  • Structures can be disassembled and rearranged into new and different structures.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Disassemble a structure into small pieces.
  • Assemble a new structure using the same small pieces.
  • Provide a written and/or oral explanation that correlates with a demonstration detailing the characteristics of the new object or objects.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • Structures may be broken into smaller pieces and a new structure, that is different in size or shape, can be formed from the same pieces.

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Crosscutting Concepts

Energy and Matter

CR Resource Type

Lesson/Unit Plan

Resource Provider

Other

License Type

CUSTOM

Resource Provider other

American Chemical Society
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