An object is something you can touch but something that is not usually a living thing.

A material is what an object is made from. An object can be made from more than one material.

Recycling is when we collect and sort our rubbish instead of throwing it away. These items then get changed into something new for us to use.

To sort is to put items into different groups.

To group things is to put similar things together.

Materials for recycling

Science

In this Everyday materials unit, pupils learn to distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made. In the Uses of everyday materials unit they build on this knowledge to consider the suitability of materials for particular uses

Pupils will draw upon prior exploration of different materials in EYFS and their own everyday experiences.  In this unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to identify and name everyday materials and describe their simple physical properties

This unit focuses on distinguishing objects from the materials they are made of, identifying common materials like wood, plastic, and metal, and describing their physical properties. It involves comparing and grouping materials, performing simple tests, and using observations to answer questions.

Everyday materials

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Materials such glass, wood, metal and plastic can often be...

Materials cannot be recycled and used again.

Some materials can be recycled and used again.

All materials can be recycled and used again.

Which skills do scientists use when they sort materials?

it reduces waste and this helps the planet.

What do we call a thing that we can touch but that is not alive?

True or false? All objects are made from the same material.

Match each object to the material that it is made from.

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Materials for recycling

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.