Last updated: 7/11/2025

2nd Grade Science Trimester 1

First Trimester

September-December

Report Card Standard:

Can demonstrate an understanding of scientific content and concepts.

Structure and Properties of Matter

K-2 Engineering Design

(1)	S.2.PS.1.1	Students who demonstrate understanding can plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.
(1)	S.2.PS.1.2	Students who demonstrate understanding can analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.
(1)	S.2.PS.1.3	Students who demonstrate understanding can make observations to construct an evidence -based account of how an object made of a small set of pieces can be disassembled and made into a new object.
(1)	S.2.PS.1.4	Students who demonstrate understanding can construct an argument with evidence that some changes caused by heating or cooling can be reversed and some cannot.
(1)	S.K-2.ETS.1.1	Students who demonstrate understanding can ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
(1)	S.K-2.ETS.1.2	Students who demonstrate understanding can develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
(1)	S.K-2.ETS.1.3	Students who demonstrate understanding can analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Why are certain materials used for specific purposes?

What are the different kinds of matter that exist?

How is matter observed and classified?

What effect does temperature have on matter?

Are all changes in matter reversible?

Why is it important that engineers know about the property of materials?

In this module, students investigate and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties, including color and texture, and heat conduction. Students learn about states of matter and properties of materials. They investigate which materials are good insulators and which are good conductors.

After building their knowledge and skills throughout the module, students determine the best materials to use as they design a prototype to keep an ice pop frozen for at least 30 minutes.

Scientific Inquiry Process:

Ask

Explore

Model

Evaluate

Explain

Matter
Solid
Liquid
Gas
Texture
Hardness
Flexibility
Absorb
Waterproof
Material
Property
Engineer
Design
Test
Model

PLTW Design Process: Ask-Explore-Model-Evaluate-Explain

PLTW Scientific Inquiry Process: Ask-Predict-Investigate-Observe-Explain-Ask

LO1.1 – Follow a step-by-step method to solve a problem.

LO3.1 – Classify and describe materials by a variety of observable properties.

LO5 – Collaborate effectively on a diverse and multidisciplinary team.

LO6 – Communicate effectively for specific purposes using the appropriate platform, tool, format, or digital media.

LO7 – Practice ethical behavior in all settings.

IXL

Mystery Science

PLTW Curriculum

Epic

Raz-Kids

Library Resources

Scholastic News / Science Spin

Into Reading

NewsELA?

Brainpop/Brainpop Jr.

Generation Genius

NGSS Science Resources

Matter Google Slides

Summative Assessment (See Rubric)