Classifying Matter Matching Activity

Learning Objective(s)

• Students will be able to classify images of substances as molecules, compounds, or extended structures.

Instructions

Preparation:

• Use the Cricut Design Space software to create a placemat template for classification
  with sections for molecules, compounds, and extended structures or use the following
  template with the Cricut draw feature.
• Design cards with images of various molecules, compounds, and extended structures or
  use the following template.
• Use the Cricut print-then-cut feature to print and cut out the image cards.
  Lesson Breakdown:

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Engage:

• Begin with a brief discussion on what matter is and its different forms.
• Show an image of a simple molecule (e.g., water), a compound (e.g., sodium
  chloride), and an extended structure (e.g., diamond).
• Ask students to share what they know about each and how they might be
  different or similar.

2. Objective:

• Explain that today’s lesson will focus on classifying images of different types of
  matter into categories: molecules, compounds, and extended structures.
  Instruction (15 minutes)

3. Direct Instruction:

• Use a presentation to define and give examples of molecules, compounds, and
  extended structures.
• Molecule: A group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest
  fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a
  chemical reaction.
• Compound: A substance made of two or more different types of atoms bonded together.
• Extended Structure: A large, often repeating pattern of atoms or molecules, such as crystals or polymers.
• Show images and provide a brief explanation for each type.

4. Guided Practice:

• Display a few images and classify them together as a class. Use think-pair-share for students to discuss their classifications before sharing out.

Activity (25 minutes)

5. Independent Practice:

• Distribute the Cricut-created placemat templates and sets of image cards to each student or group of students.
• Students will classify the images on the placemats under the correct headings: Molecule, Compound, Extended Structure.
• Encourage students to write a brief justification for each classification in their science notebooks.

Monitoring:

• Walk around the room, observing students' classifications, and providing guidance or prompting questions as needed.
• Assess student learning with rubric criteria.

Closure (10 minutes)

7. Review and Reflect:

• Have students share their classifications and justifications with the class.
• Correct any misunderstandings and reinforce the characteristics of molecules,
  compounds, and extended structures.

8. Exit Ticket:

• Ask students to write down one thing they learned about classifying matter and
  one question they still have.

Cricut Integration:

1. Designing the Placemat:

• Use Cricut Design Space to create a placemat template divided into three sections: Molecule, Compound, Extended Structure.
• Add labels and decorative elements to make the placemat visually appealing.

2. Printing and Cutting the Cards:

• Design cards with images of various molecules, compounds, and extended
  structures in Cricut Design Space.
• Use the print-then-cut feature to print the images onto cardstock and then cut them out using the Cricut machine.
• Ensure each card is accurately cut and easy for students to handle and place on the placemat.

3. Execution:

• Before the lesson, prepare enough placemats and sets of cards for all groups or students.
• Demonstrate how to use the placemat and cards for classification during the
  guided practice.
• Optional, laminate for reuse and durability. By incorporating the Cricut machine, students will have hands-on, engaging materials to work with, enhancing their understanding and making the lesson more interactive.