| Grade Level | System Requirement | Product Number |
|---|---|---|
| Grades 3-6 | Apple 128K | A212 |
| To learn about the physical and chemical properties of matter, students conduct computer-simulated scientific experiments. From the test results for pH, density, reaction to water, freezing point, boiling point, electrical conductivity, and magnetism, kids then attempt to identify the “mystery” matter. | ||
Introduction
Mystery Matter is a discovery-learning simulation that capitalizes on the natural curiosity of students and encourages them to use their curiosity while learning scientific content and developing appropriate scientific processes.
Mystery Matter is a part of MECC’s Science Inquiry Collection. Like all the packages in this collection, Mystery Matter features a strong process orientation while presenting material that is firmly anchored in the school science curriculum.
In Mystery Matter, students are challenged to determine the identity of unknown matter by testing it for such physical attributes and chemical properties as pH, density, reaction to water, freezing point, boiling point, electrical conductivity, and magnetism. As the unknown matter is tested for its properties, the students observe and record the results, and with the use of an onscreen database, students are able to identify the matter.
Another component of Mystery Matter is its capability to allow students to create matter. Matter is created according to chemical specifications entered by the student. This matter is then stored and can be viewed by other students.
Physical science concepts addressed by Mystery Matter include:
- Matter is generally in one of three distinctive physical states: solid, liquid, or gas.
- Matter can be tested for its chemical and physical properties.
- Matter can be identitied by its chemical and physical properties.
Science processes students will practice include:
- observation;
- comparison;
- information collection;
- record-keeping; and
- classification.
Chemical and physical properties that Mystery Matter can test include:
- solubility;
- melting/boiling point;
- freezing/condensing point;
- magnetism;
- electrical conductivity;
- pH;
- and density.
Manual
Not available yet (In Production)