Materials
Learn about the topic of materials and take on a real-life challenge investigating the properties of materials with a materials engineer.
16 resources
View Collection
56 results
Searching Ages 9-11
Be a materials investigator
Explore the properties of materials with this hands-on real-world challenge including a range of exciting activities. Encourage your pupils to investigate materials with the Material Makers challenge, led by a real scientist, Anna.
7 resources
View Lesson
Careers linked to materials poster
Inspire your pupils to think about potential future careers linked to learning about materials, with this poster.
Meet an architect poster
Inspire your pupils to think about a potential future career as an architect with this poster.
Meet a materials engineer poster
Inspire your pupils to think about a potential future career as a material scientist with this poster.
Meet a materials engineer video (9-11)
Watch Anna, a materials scientist working in the construction industry, describe her job and what inspired her to be become an expert in concrete.
Material investigators presentation
Use this presentation to lead pupils through the challenge, providing step-by-step instructions for investigating the strength of corrugated cardboard planks and designing their own innovative material.
Material investigators: Delivery guide
A brief teacher's guide outlining the challenge background, required equipment, and tips for using the resources effectively. This challenge focuses on 'materials' and provides real-world context for the curriculum topic of 'properties of materials.'
Material investigators: Skills and knowledge self-check
Pupils use this activity sheet to demonstrate what's they've learnt during the challenge.
Material investigators: Design your own material
Pupils can use this sheet to record their creative ideas for a new material, that can be used in the building industry and beyond.
Material investigators: Which plank is strongest (direction of layers)
Step-by-step instructions on how to carry out an investigation to answer the question: How does the direction of layers affect the strength of a cardboard plank?
Material investigators: Which plank is strongest (number of layers)
Step-by-step instructions on how to carry out an investigation to answer the question: How does the number of layers affect the strength of a cardboard plank?