Density and Sinking and Floating

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

Subject Area

Science

Grade(s)

5

Overview

In this lesson, students will be able to explain that the density of a substance has to do with how heavy it is compared to the size of the object. Students will also be able to explain that density is a characteristic property of a substance. Students are introduced to the concept of density and that density has to do with how heavy something is relative to its size. Students are also introduced to the idea that whether a substance sinks or floats in water is a characteristic property of that substance and does not depend on the amount of the substance. Students also learn that if an object is denser than water it will sink when placed in water, and if it is less dense than water it will float.

Science (2015) Grade(s): 5

SC15.5.5

Construct explanations from observations to determine how the density of an object affects whether the object sinks or floats when placed in a liquid.

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Vocabulary

  • density
  • volume
  • buoyancy
  • data
  • observe
  • explain
  • sink
  • float
  • mass

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Objects are made of many tiny particles to small to be seen.
  • Some objects have many tiny particles compacted close together that causes the object to sink while other objects the same size may float because their tiny particles are less compact.
  • Some objects of the same size sink when others float.
  • Buoyancy is the ability of an object to float.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Predict the results of different types of objects being placed in water. Test the objects and communicate the results.
  • Use appropriate tools (Scale, balance, ruler, or graduated cylinder) to measure the weight, mass, and/volume of an object.
  • Construct an explanation to describe the observed relationship between density and the ability of an object to sink or float.
  • Identify the evidence that supports the explanation that density affects the ability of an object to sink or float.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • Cause and effect relationships are routinely identified and used to explain phenomenon like sinking and floating.

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

CR Resource Type

Lesson/Unit Plan

Resource Provider

American Chemical Society

License Type

Custom

Accessibility

Video resources: includes closed captioning or subtitles
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