lesson
Squash, bend, twist, stretch
Read with an adult. You can say, point, draw or write your answer.
1 · Learn
Some solid objects change shape when we push or pull them. Squashing makes something flatter. Bending curves it. Twisting turns one part against another. Stretching pulls it longer.
Not every object can do all of these. Soft modelling dough can be squashed. A wooden block usually cannot be squashed by our hands. Some objects return to their old shape; others do not.
2 · Worked example
I squash soft dough into a flatter shape. It is still dough. I changed its shape, not the name of its material.
3 · Your turn
A soft sponge becomes flatter when pressed. Which action is this? Is a change of shape always a change of material?
Check your answer
It is squashing. No: the sponge can change shape while remaining the same material.
4 · Apply your learning
With an adult, compare a sponge, a cloth and suitable modelling dough. Try gentle actions and record what changed. Do not force anything.
Adult guidance and safety
Avoid latex/allergy risks, sharp wire, snapping elastic and small choking hazards. Never stretch objects towards a face. Adult selects materials and decides safe actions.
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My observation notebook
An adult selects safe samples. Record the material, the gentle action and what changed. Note whether the shape returned afterwards. Do not force objects, use sharp wire or stretch anything towards a face. A shape change does not necessarily make a new material.
Tell your adult what you notice. They can help you write it. A prediction is what you think might happen; an observation is what you actually see, hear or feel safely.
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Your records on this page
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