Matter Classification Worksheet

Name: ____________________ Date: ___________

Use with Matter Matters Lesson Plan and Matter Matters Slide Deck

Part 1: Observations

Sample 1: Ice Cube (Solid)

1. State of matter: _________
   
   
   
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. _________________________
   
   
   b. _________________________
   
   
   c. _________________________
   
   
3. Describe how the particles are arranged (close together, fixed pattern, etc.):
   
   
   
   
   
   

Sample 2: Cup of Water (Liquid)

1. State of matter: _________
   
   
   
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. _________________________
   
   
   b. _________________________
   
   
   c. _________________________
   
   
3. Describe how the particles move and are arranged (loose, flowing, etc.):
   
   
   
   
   
   

Sample 3: Inflated Balloon (Gas)

1. State of matter: _________
   
   
   
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. _________________________
   
   
   b. _________________________
   
   
   c. _________________________
   
   
3. Describe how the particles fill space (spread out, free movement, etc.):
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Definitions

Write your own definitions for each state of matter:

1. Solid:
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Liquid:
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Gas:
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Apply Your Understanding

1. Give one new example of a solid and explain why it is a solid:
   
   
   
   
2. Give one new example of a liquid and explain why it is a liquid:
   
   
   
   
3. Give one new example of a gas and explain why it is a gas:
   
   
   
   

Part 4: State Change

1. Describe what happens to the ice cube as it melts. Explain the change in terms of particle movement and arrangement:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Predict another example of a state change (e.g., condensation, evaporation) and describe the process in terms of particles:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Matter Classification Worksheet Answer Key

This answer key provides correct responses and detailed teacher notes to guide grading and classroom discussions.

Part 1: Observations

Sample 1: Ice Cube (Solid)

1. State of matter: Solid
   Teacher Note: Identify that a solid has fixed shape and volume.
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. Hard or firm surface
   b. Definite shape (does not flow)
   c. Definite volume (maintains size)
   Teacher Note: Look for any three clear, observable traits that match solid behavior (e.g., cold, smooth).
3. Describe how the particles are arranged:
   Particles are packed closely in a fixed, orderly pattern and only vibrate in place.
   Teacher Note: Emphasize the fixed pattern and limited movement of particles in solids.

Sample 2: Cup of Water (Liquid)

1. State of matter: Liquid
   Teacher Note: Liquids have definite volume but no fixed shape.
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. Flows or pours
   b. Takes shape of the container
   c. Definite volume (level stays the same)
   Teacher Note: Any three from: fluidity, surface tension, wetness, ability to splash.
3. Describe how the particles move and are arranged:
   Particles are close together but not in a fixed pattern; they slide and flow past each other freely.
   Teacher Note: Emphasize that particles are still touching but mobile.

Sample 3: Inflated Balloon (Gas)

1. State of matter: Gas
   Teacher Note: Gases have no fixed shape or volume.
2. List 3 observable properties:
   a. Fills all available space inside the balloon
   b. Invisible (you see the balloon, not the gas directly)
   c. Can be compressed or expanded
   Teacher Note: Accept properties like low density, ability to escape if unsealed.
3. Describe how the particles fill space:
   Particles are far apart, move rapidly in all directions, and completely fill the container’s volume.
   Teacher Note: Highlight random, free movement and large distances between particles.

Part 2: Definitions

Provide concise definitions including key characteristics. Award full credit for mentioning shape, volume, and particle behavior.

1. Solid:
   A state of matter with a definite shape and definite volume. Particles are tightly packed in a fixed arrangement and only vibrate.
   Teacher Note: Look for “definite shape/volume” and “fixed particle arrangement.”
2. Liquid:
   A state of matter with a definite volume but no definite shape. Particles are close together but can move and flow past each other.
   Teacher Note: Must mention flowing/sliding particles and container shape.
3. Gas:
   A state of matter with no definite shape or volume. Particles are far apart and move freely to fill any space.
   Teacher Note: Credit “no fixed shape/volume” and “free-moving particles.”

Part 3: Apply Your Understanding

Students should provide one new example for each state and connect the example to the defining properties. Accept any reasonable example with correct rationale.

1. Example of a solid (e.g., rock):
   • Why: A rock maintains its own shape and volume, and its particles are rigidly held in place.
     Teacher Note: Award if student cites two key characteristics.
2. Example of a liquid (e.g., juice):
   • Why: Juice takes the shape of its container but keeps the same volume; its particles flow around each other.
     Teacher Note: Accept other liquids (oil, milk, etc.) with correct reasoning.
3. Example of a gas (e.g., steam/air):
   • Why: Steam spreads out to fill any available space and has no fixed shape or volume; its particles move freely.
     Teacher Note: Accept examples like carbon dioxide, helium, etc.

Part 4: State Change

Question 1: Melting Ice

Answer: As the ice cube melts, it absorbs heat energy. The particles vibrate faster, overcome their fixed positions, and begin to slide past each other, forming a liquid with no fixed shape.
Teacher Note: Look for references to energy absorption, increased particle motion, and change from fixed pattern to flowing arrangement.

Question 2: Predict Another State Change (e.g., Evaporation)

Example Answer (Evaporation): Water on a hot day evaporates into water vapor (gas). Particles at the surface gain enough energy to break free from liquid bonds and spread out into the air.
Teacher Note: Full credit for naming a process (condensation, freezing, sublimation, etc.) and describing particle energy change and arrangement.

End of Answer Key.
Use this key to check student responses and guide feedback on their understanding of matter and its states.