Introduction
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Introduction Begin by showing students a short video of a coastal barangay in the Philippines where freshwater is scarce, and residents use a simple desalination setup. Ask the class: "Why does salt dissolve in seawater? What happens to the particles when water heats up?" Display a glass of saltwater and a glass of plain water side by side and ask students to think about the invisible world of particles. This sparks curiosity and activates prior knowledge about matter before diving into the Particle Model and solutions. |
Task
Task
Working in groups, students will produce a digital science investigation report or illustrated poster that:
(1) explains the Particle Model of Matter and describes particle behavior in solids, liquids, and gases using diagrams;
(2) shows the changes of state using particle-level illustrations;
(3) demonstrates understanding of solute, solvent, and solubility through an investigation on how temperature affects how much salt dissolves in water; and
(4) connects findings to the real-world desalination problem in a conclusion statement.
Process
Process
- Read the assigned resources on the Particle Model of Matter and states of matter. Take notes on how particles are arranged and move in solids, liquids, and gases.
- Watch the PhET "States of Matter" simulation and sketch particle diagrams for each state. Label each diagram with arrangement, spacing, and motion.
- Conduct the investigation: Measure 100 mL of water at three temperatures (cold, room temperature, hot). Add salt 1 teaspoon at a time and record how much dissolves in each. Use standard units and record data in a table.
- Analyze your data. Create a digital poster or slide that includes: your particle diagrams, a flowchart of changes of state, your investigation data table, and a conclusion explaining how your findings relate to desalination.
Resources
- PhET Interactive Simulations – "States of Matter" (University of Colorado Boulder): https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/states-of-matter
- CK-12 Foundation – "Particle Model of Matter" (Grade 7 Physical Science): https://www.ck12.org/book/ck-12-physical-science-for-middle-school/sect…
- Khan Academy – "States of Matter" and "Solubility": https://www.khanacademy.org/science/chemistry/states-of-matter-and-inte…
Evaluation
Evaluation
Student outputs will be assessed using a 4-criterion rubric: (1) Scientific Accuracy – correct use of the Particle Model, states of matter, and solubility concepts based on the MATATAG MELC; (2) Investigation Quality – proper identification of variables, accurate measurements in standard units, and complete data recording following the steps of a scientific investigation; (3) Higher-Order Thinking – ability to analyze data, explain particle-level phenomena, and connect findings to the real-world desalination scenario; and (4) Digital Presentation – clarity, completeness, and visual quality of the final poster or report including particle diagrams and flowcharts.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Learners should realize that the Particle Model of Matter is the foundation for understanding why substances behave the way they do — from melting ice to dissolving salt in seawater. They should reflect on how scientific investigation skills such as accurate measurement, identifying variables, and recording data help produce reliable evidence. Most importantly, they should recognize that science is not just a classroom subject but a tool for understanding and solving real problems in their communities, just like the desalination challenge facing coastal Filipino families.
Credits
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Teacher Page
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