Why do we use different materials to build a house? - Teacher notes

The educational unit under discussion is tailored to help students understand the rationale behind the selection of different materials in construction, with a particular emphasis on the parts of a house. The lesson begins with an exploration of glass, prompting students to identify where glass is commonly found within a house. Following this, the properties of glass are discussed to provide insight into why it is chosen for certain applications, such as windows, due to its transparency and ability to let in light while providing a barrier from external elements.

Moving forward, the lesson extends to cover other materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and brick or stone. Each material is examined in turn, with students completing a worksheet dedicated to the properties and uses of each one. Through this activity, they learn why specific materials are suited to particular jobs based on characteristics like strength, durability, insulation, or aesthetic appeal. To make the lesson more relatable, children are asked to reflect on items in their own bedrooms made of glass, wood, or plastic, and to consider whether the best material has been chosen for these objects. This exercise encourages critical thinking about the everyday materials that surround us and their suitability for different functions within the construction of a house.