Lesson 1: Gases: Properties and Behaviour
Figure F.8 - Solids, liquids and gases
- Hook: Think-Pair-Share – students will list all the properties of gases individually, then they will share with their partners, then with the class. They can have a KWL chart where they will list what they brainstorm into the K portion. After they share, ask students what they want to know and to list it in the W portion. Students will keep this until the end of the unit to fill out the L portion. This activity allows for students to orient their learning for the unit and is a great diagnostic.
- Action: The three states of matter will be compared. The class will discuss the difference between the energy of the particles and the space between them. Generally, solid particles have low energy, they have a constant shape and volume, and there is little space between particles. Liquid particles have more energy, they are able to slide past one another, and they occupy constant shape but variable volume. Gases have the most energy, there is ample space between particles and they are free to move in any direction (follow the Kinetic Molecular Theory). Reinforce discussion with a video.
- Debrief: Exit slip – “What are you looking forward to learning the most this unit?”. Since the students are keeping their KWL charts for progress on their individual learning, it is important to collect their aspirations for this unit in order to modify the unit according to the interests of the students.
- Other Teaching Ideas:
- Gases: Properties and Behaviour
- Kinetic Molecular Theory Video
- Popcorn KMT Experiment
- SMART Board state changes animation
- Gas Misconceptions Video
- More worksheets and activities