Separating sand, salt and water - State of Matter - Year 4

In a practical science lesson aimed at Year 4 students, the topic of discussion is the separation of sand, salt, and water, a task that requires an understanding of the states of matter and how they change. The lesson encourages students to utilise their knowledge of evaporation, a process where liquids turn into gases, to separate the mixture. Students are prompted to watch an educational video that provides insights into the separation technique. Accompanying worksheets guide the students' thought processes by asking them to consider how solids, liquids, and gases change state and how these changes can be used to separate different substances.

The lesson is structured into three stages: Planning, Doing, and Evaluative. During the Planning stage, students are asked to clarify the investigation's objectives, identify challenges, and ensure they have the necessary resources. In the Doing stage, they carry out the separation experiment, considering their own ideas and those of their peers to determine the best approach. They are encouraged to be flexible and reflective as they work through the task. Finally, in the Evaluative stage, students reflect on what they did correctly, what could be improved for future investigations, and what lessons they can take away from the experience. This reflective process is designed to help them grow as learners and scientists, understanding the importance of collaboration, preparation, and critical thinking in scientific inquiry.