The purpose of this unit is to introduce and provide students with a basic understanding of heat and how it plays an important role in everyday life. Students should already be familiar with the three states of matter as well as some of the changes that matter can undergo, namely fusion (melting), solidification (freezing) and evaporation. This information serves as building blocks that will be expanded upon in the unit. This unit also provides a foundation for the mixtures and solutions unit in grade seven. As well, higher level units such as fluids in grade eight and chemical reactions in grade ten.

The heat unit was chosen as it can be difficult for students to understand due to the inclusion of abstract concepts such as particle theory and heat transfer. Students are aware that heat exists, but are often confused that it is a form of energy. It is important that the distinction between heat and temperature are made clear and that any other misconceptions are addressed throughout the unit. This unit can be made exciting and engaging as it lends itself to several experiments for students to see the transfer of heat and the changes of states of matter first hand.

This unit provides students with hands-on opportunities through virtual and in-person laboratory activities. It also gives them the opportunity to think about how heat and temperature are present in their everyday lives. A combination of text, images and videos are used to help create an inclusive learning experience. Learning targets are included with each lesson to help guide students about what they will be learning and to give the lesson more structure. Questions that students should be able to answer at the end of each lesson are also included to help students regulate their learning.