English National Curriculum - Science

3. Describe the properties of everyday materials

Mission Objectives

Name and describe simple physical properties of materials

Identify these properties when looking at everyday objects and materials

Compare two materials and say how their properties are different

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

dull

not shiny

absorbent

something that soaks up water

properties

words that tell us what a material is like

stiff

not easily bent

transparent

see through

This lesson has been written by

Sarah Mintey MBE

Sarah is a former headteacher and charity CEO who founded Developing Experts in October 2015 with the goal to create a fit-for-purpose curriculum for schools. The company has created a science curriculum for children ages 4-16 which is delivered through sequenced lessons mapped against the National Curriculum in biology, chemistry, and physics. Developing Expert's innovative approach to learning has already been road-tested and voted 'best EdTech product in Europe', winning Tech Nation’s Rising Stars earlier in 2019 and a place on Google for Startups Immersion program 2020. In 2022 Developing Experts won the BETT Awards for Best Classroom Resource - Teaching Aid. Sarah is a 'LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leader' 2022. In October 2022 Developing Experts joined Tech Nation's Upscale 8.0 programme.

Sarah is delighted to be working with over 6500 UK schools and clients such as the Royal Horticulture Society, Network Rail, Rolls Royce, BEIS, National Nuclear Labs, Anglian Water and the Ministry of Defence.

Sarah was awarded an MBE for her services to tech and education in 2020. 

Matthew Willsher

Matthew is an experienced and qualified educator, with a background in both classroom and outdoor settings. He is passionate about making learning engaging for all involved and creates content which enhances children’s experiences in education and those delivering it. With a strong belief in the value of education, Matthew recognises the importance of enabling children and adults to access any curriculum content with ease, regardless of their backgrounds. In his spare time, Matthew loves being with family and friends; additionally, he has a keen interest in the performing arts and volunteers time as a voice-over artist.

Katie Barrie


Katie is the Chief Operating Officer at DE, which means she oversees HR, finance and our business model. After studying Drama at Exeter University, Katie spent three years as a primary teacher, before relocating to Norfolk and joining Developing Experts. 

In her spare time, Katie likes to sing with Norwich Harmony barbershop chorus and has recently formed a quartet. Katie loves cooking and spending time with her husband, Bryan and dog, Bertie. She has an endearing laugh, which has to be heard to be believed. Many of us see Katie as the office 'Mum', she gives great hugs and keeps our spirits up.  

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Chloe Wilson

Chloe has worked in education for the past 7 years, with a particular passion for the Early Years Foundation Stage. A strong advocate for active, hands-on learning, she is committed to creating engaging, meaningful experiences that help children thrive from the very start of their educational journey.

Driven by the belief that every child should be inspired by learning, she is dedicated to supporting them as they discover new skills, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of exploration and curiosity.

In her spare time, Chloe enjoys reading fiction books, going on long walks with her new dog and travelling to discover new and delicious food!

Required Resources

Resources: A selection of everyday objects that match the teacher resource.

Teacher resource: Images of a selection of everyday objects.

Support Handout (1): A table with two columns. Column one with five images of objects to investigate. Column 2 has space to write the properties. Handout includes a word bank.

Core Handout (2): A table with two columns, one with space to write the object, the other space to write the properties. 

Stretch Handout (3): Space to write two object comparisons.

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