• Quick retrieval from earlier learning (Properties of materials). Students answer on mini whiteboards.
• Show answers together and note who needs support in the main task.

1. A sponge soaks up water. Which word describes it? (transparent / waterproof / shiny / absorbent) → absorbentPrompt: It takes in water.
2. Which material is the best thermal insulator (keeps heat in)? (wool / copper / iron / aluminium (aluminum)) → woolPrompt: Metals let heat pass through them quickly.
3. Properties of materials: which statement is true? (All metals are magnetic. / Metals are good conductors of electricity. / Fabric is always waterproof. / Rubber is rigid.) → Metals are good conductors of electricity.Prompt: Think about a coin, a window and a raincoat.

• Pass round objects made of different materials and ask why each one was chosen.
• Share the objective: Choosing materials for a job. Read the success criteria together.

• Work through the example out loud, saying why you do each step, not just what you do.
• Example: Why is a towel made of fabric like cotton?
• Step 1: Absorbent fabric soaks up water from your skin.
• Step 2: So the answer is: It is soft and absorbent
• Answer: It is soft and absorbent
• Pause after each step and ask a student to say what comes next.

• Do these together. Students try each step on whiteboards before you reveal it.
• Use the hints as prompts rather than giving the answer.

1. Why are windows made of glass? (It is magnetic / It is soft / It is transparent, so light comes in / It is absorbent) → It is transparent, so light comes inPrompt: What do we want to do through a window?
2. Why are electrical wires made of copper covered in plastic? (Copper is magnetic and plastic is shiny / Copper is see-through / Copper conducts electricity; plastic insulates for safety / Plastic conducts electricity better than copper) → Copper conducts electricity; plastic insulates for safetyPrompt: Which part carries the electricity, and which part keeps you safe?

• Students work on the student sheet. Circulate and check the first two answers of every student early.
• Students who finish: write a question of their own for a partner, with the answer.

The 8 questions are on the student sheet below, with answers in the key.

• Two questions on their own. Sort answers into got it / nearly / not yet to plan the next lesson.

1. Bridges are often made of steel. Which property matters most? (strength / absorbency / transparency / softness) → strengthPrompt: A bridge must carry heavy loads.
2. Choosing materials: which statement is true? (Metal is best for a window you want to see through. / Saucepan handles are often made of plastic or wood because they are thermal insulators. / Cotton wool is good for a raincoat. / Glass is a good material for a football.) → Saucepan handles are often made of plastic or wood because they are thermal insulators.Prompt: Match the property to the job.

Free online practice with hints and printable worksheets for this skill: eurekami.com/science/grade-2.