If a solid dissolves in a liquid, it mixes completely with the liquid so that you can no longer see it.

Solids or gases that do not dissolve in a liquid are called insoluble.

To separate something means to divide it into different parts or groups.

To filter means to pour a mixture of liquid and solid through a fine mesh to separate the solid particles from the liquid.

A sieve is a tool with a mesh of holes that lets smaller pieces pass through while keeping larger pieces behind.

Recovering insoluble solids

Science

In this Properties, changes and separating materials unit, pupils learn to decide how mixtures might be separated, including through filtering, sieving and evaporating. In the Materials challenge unit, they will build on this knowledge to apply their understanding of separating materials to a wider range of everyday situations

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties. In this Properties, changes and separating materials, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare an group together everyday materials on the basis of a wider variety of properties

This unit explores the properties of everyday materials, including hardness, solubility, and conductivity. It covers reversible changes like dissolving and mixing, and irreversible changes such as burning. Emphasis is on scientific enquiries, data recording, and presenting findings with evidence.

Properties, changes and separating materials

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

A solution is a mixture where one substance is {{}} into another substance, such as a solid into a liquid.

If a solid does not dissolve in a liquid it is said to be {{}}.

A ________ is a piece of equipment used to separate insoluble solids from liquids in our everyday lives.

Which of these mixtures could be separated using a sieve? 

What is the name of the method used to separate insoluble solids from a liquid or a gas?

Which of these materials are in the liquid state at room temperature (20 ºC)? 

What is the name of the process when a substance changes from the solid to the liquid state?

When a solid dissolves in a liquid, a {{}} is produced. 

you can see small pieces of the solid within the liquid.

you can see small pieces of the solid floating on the liquid.

In a solution, when a solid dissolves in a liquid… 

can be dissolved in water or another liquid

cannot be dissolved in water or another liquid

Match the following key words to their definition.

You have three mixtures of solids in front of you. Based on their appearance, which ones could be solutions?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

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

Recovering insoluble solids

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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