What makes some materials waterproof, stretchy, rough or smooth? In this hands-on STEM incursion, students become young scientists and engineers as they investigate the fascinating properties of everyday materials. Through five engaging missions, students observe, compare, test and create while discovering why different materials are chosen for different purposes. The incursion encourages curiosity, critical thinking and creativity through meaningful, play-based learning.
Mission 1 – Waterproof Challenge
Students become materials scientists as they investigate which everyday materials absorb water and which repel it. Through simple predictions and hands-on testing, students discover why some materials are better suited for keeping people and objects dry.
Mission 2 – Material Detectives
Using their senses, students investigate a variety of materials to discover their unique properties. They compare textures, flexibility, strength and appearance before describing and sorting materials based on their observations.
Mission 3 – Magnet Magic
Students explore the invisible force of magnetism through exciting hands-on challenges. They use magnetic tools to search for hidden treasures, investigate which materials are attracted to magnets, and discover how magnets can be used to move and connect objects. Students then apply their discoveries through playful building and problem-solving challenges.
Mission 4 – Materials Match-Up
Can you choose the best material for the job? Students sort everyday objects and match them with the materials they are made from, discussing why particular materials are suitable for different purposes. They discover that the properties of materials influence how we use them in everyday life.
Mission 5 – Wind Engineers
Students become engineers as they design and create their own wind-powered toy to take home. As they build, they explore how properties such as weight, flexibility and strength affect how materials move in the air. Students test their ideas and discover why choosing the right materials is an important part of successful design.
Students Will
- Explore and compare the properties of everyday materials.
- Investigate how materials behave through simple scientific testing.
- Develop observation and prediction skills.
- Recognise why different materials are used for different purposes.
- Design and construct a functional kite using appropriate materials.
- Take home their own handmade kite.