Unit Curriculum Map for Physical Science
Cook County Schools
Unit: Atomic and molecular motion #4
# of Days: 6
Key Concept(s)
 Phases of matter
 Molecular motion is related to energy content
Standards/Elements
SPS5. Students will compare and contrast the phases of matter as they related to atomic and molecular motion
a. Compare and contrast the atomic/molecular motion of solids, liquids, gases, and
b. Relate temperature, pressure, and volume of gases to the behavior of gases.
SPS 2. Students will explore the nature of matter, its classifications, and its system for naming types of matter
a. Calculate density when given a means to determine a substance’s mass and volume
SPS7. Students will relate transformations and flow of energy within a system
d. Explain the flow of energy in phase changes through the use of a phase diagram
Unit Essential Questions
a. What are the characteristics of the four phases of matter?
b. How does temperature and kinetic energy relate to the four phases of matter
c. How does temperature, pressure, and volume relate to the gas laws?
d. How are large ships able to stay afloat in narrow channels?
Content
 There are four phases of matter
 The energy content of each phase relates to the motion of atoms
 Temperature, pressure, and volume affect phases of matter
 Energy is neither created nor destroyed
 Density and buoyancy allow objects to float.
Key Terms/Vocabulary – “Language of the Standard/Elements”
Atomic/molecular motion, gas, Law of Conservation of Energy, liquid, plasma, pressure, solid, temperature, volume
Skills
 State the four phases of matter
 Compare/contrast the atomic/molecular motion of a solid, liquid, gas or plasma
 Describe how temperature affects the molecular motion in solids, liquids, and gases
 Describe how temperature, volume, and pressure are related in a gas
Assessment(s)
Performance tasks
Oobleck lab- Students will experiment with mystery substance and write a one page description of the substance in scientific
terms.
Tin foil boat lab- Students will construct a boat made out of a 18” square of heavy-duty aluminum foil. The goal is to see
which boat will hold the most nails before sinking.
Quizzes:
Vocabulary
Guided practice: study guide, worksheets, video questions
Test:
multiple choice
Self-assessment: cooperative note-taking, graphic organizer, gas laws learning centers