K.PS.1: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
Objects can be sorted and described by the properties of the materials from which they are made. Some of the properties can include color, size and texture.
CONTENT ELABORATION
Kindergarten Concepts
In kindergarten, the concept that objects are made of specific materials (e.g., clay, cloth, paper, metal, glass) is reinforced. Objects have certain properties (e.g., color, shape, size, temperature, odor, texture, flexibility) that can be described, compared and sorted.
Students should not use the sense of taste as a way of observing an unknown substance. Observations are limited to descriptors such as hot, warm, cold, heavy and light. Comparisons of objects are a precursor to measurement. Comparisons are used to sort and describe objects (e.g., is the wooden block heavier or lighter than the plastic block?). Standard and nonstandard measuring tools can give additional information about the environment and can be used to make comparisons of objects and events. Magnifiers can be used to see detail that cannot be seen with the unaided eye.
Familiar objects from home, the classroom or the natural environment can be explored and
investigated.
Future Application of Concepts
Grades 1-2: Changes in objects are investigated, including temperature changes, solid-liquid phase changes and possible changes in amount of liquid water in open and/or closed
containers.
Grades 3-5: Matter is defined. Measurements of weight and liquid volume are made. The mass and kind of material remains the same when an object is reshaped or broken into pieces. The properties of solids, liquids and gases (air) and phase changes are explored. Differentiating between mass and weight is not necessary at this grade level.