Changes in States of Matter Card Sorting Activity Phase Changes

Item description

This phase changes activity for middle school science has students sort cards into the changes in states of matter. Freezing, melting, vaporization, condensation, sublimation, and deposition are included. After students sort all of the cards, they record their answers on a worksheet and answer questions about changes in states of matter in sentences. Students can work individually, in pairs, or in small groups to complete this activity.

What’s included in this resource?

• Teacher information pages
• 6 changes in states of matter category cards (Freezing, Melting, Vaporization, Condensation, Sublimation, and Deposition)
• 6 definition cards
• 6 cards showing the changes at a particle level
• 12 example cards with pictures
• 4 blank cards for a possible extension activity
• Student activity sheet
• Teacher answer key

Why is this activity a great choice for teachers and their students?

• It comes with detailed information for the teacher to help the lesson go smoothly.
• The cards have both words and pictures, which can be especially beneficial for English language learners.
• Blank cards are included so students can make their own and add to the activity.
• There is an included student activity sheet. This helps students think about their answers on a deeper level, keeps students accountable, and has students learn more than they would with just a card sort.
• A full answer key is included.

What have other teachers said about this activity?

• “My students were completely engaged in this activity, and it helped them solidify their learning and mastery of these concepts. Thank you!”
• “This is the perfection addition to my changing states of matter unit. It really pushes my students to do critical thinking and takes them away from the monotonous multiple choice questions.”
• “Easy to use. I felt like my students got a lot out of this activity and I heard great discussion! Thanks!”