A solid has a fixed shape and volume but some solids can change shape when a force is applied.

Materials can exist in three common states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.

A liquid can flow, has a fixed volume and takes the shape of the bottom of the container.

To heat something is to increase its temperature.

To melt is to change from a solid state to a liquid state.

Changing state: solid to liquid

Science

Properties of solids, liquids and gases

Comparing and grouping solids, liquids and gases

Changing state: liquid to solid

Melting ice caps and glaciers (non statutory - Climate Change & Sustainability)

Everyday examples of changing state: solids and liquids (non-statutory)

Thermometers and data loggers

Melting temperatures: plan

Melting temperatures: do and review

Melting temperatures: research

Changing state: liquid to gas

Changing state: gas to liquid

Everyday examples of evaporation and condensation (non-statutory)

Evaporation and condensation in the water cycle

Temperature and evaporation: plan

Temperature and evaporation: do and review

In this Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils learn that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled. In the Properties, changes and separating materials unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn that dissolving, mixing and changes of state are reversible changes

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 Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare and group materials together according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases

This unit explores the properties of solids, liquids, and gases, and how materials change state when heated or cooled. It covers evaporation, condensation, and the water cycle, with a focus on practical enquiries, careful observations, accurate measurements, and presenting findings.

Introduction to states of matter and changing states

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

How can we change the state of a solid to a liquid?

How should you change the temperature of a solid to change it into a liquid?

The process in which a solid changes to a liquid is called ________.

How can you change materials from their solid state to their liquid state?

How could scientists monitor materials changing from their solid state to their liquid state?

At what temperature does water change from a solid state (ice) to a liquid state?

Which of the following are in the solid state at room temperature?

Which of the following is in the liquid state at room temperature?

In the ________ states, materials have a fixed volume.

In the {{}} state, materials keep their shape, except in some cases when a force is applied to them.

To heat something is to ________ its temperature.

Which of the following describes what happens to a snowman in the sun?

Changing state: solid to liquid

Lesson outcome

Content guidance