Grade 6 Science And Technology Matter – Properties Of Matter Notes
Science & Technology — Matter
Subtopic: Properties of Matter
Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. Everything you see (and some things you can't see, like air) is made of matter. Below are the important properties of matter explained simply for learners aged 11 in Kenya.
Mass
How heavy an object is. Measured with a balance in grams (g) or kilograms (kg). Example: a mango has mass.
How heavy an object is. Measured with a balance in grams (g) or kilograms (kg). Example: a mango has mass.
Volume
How much space something takes. Measured in litres (L) or cubic centimetres (cm³). Example: a bottle of maji has volume.
How much space something takes. Measured in litres (L) or cubic centimetres (cm³). Example: a bottle of maji has volume.
Density
Mass per unit volume. If something is heavy for its size, it is dense. Example: a stone is denser than a piece of wood.
Mass per unit volume. If something is heavy for its size, it is dense. Example: a stone is denser than a piece of wood.
States of matter
The three common states are: solid, liquid and gas. They differ by shape, volume and how their particles are arranged.
Solid
Definite shape & volume
Liquid
Definite volume but takes the shape of its container
Gas
No definite shape or volume — fills available space
Other properties of matter (easy examples)
- Hardness: How difficult it is to scratch or break. Example: a stone is harder than chalk.
- Elasticity: Ability to return to original shape after stretching (like a rubber band).
- Solubility: How well a substance dissolves in a liquid. Sugar dissolves in warm tea (safi).
- Conductivity: How well a material lets heat or electricity pass. Metal spoons conduct heat; plastic does not.
- Viscosity: How thick a liquid is. Honey is more viscous than water.
- Compressibility: How much a substance can be squashed. Gases compress a lot; solids very little.
Simple classroom or home experiments (with an adult)
- Density test — Egg in salt water: Put an egg in plain water (it sinks). Add salt and stir — the egg may float. Why? Salt water is denser.
- Volume by displacement: Put a measuring cup of water and drop a small stone in — the water level rises. The rise shows the stone's volume.
- Stretch test for elasticity: Pull a rubber band gently and let go — it returns to its shape. Try the same with a plastic strip — it may not return.
- Viscosity comparison: Pour water and honey on a plate and watch which flows faster. Water is less viscous.
Key words
Mass — how heavy; Volume — space it takes; Density — mass ÷ volume (heavy for size); Solubility — dissolving; Elasticity — returns to shape.
Quick quiz (try to answer)
- What are the three common states of matter?
- Give one example of a material that is a good conductor.
- Which is more viscous, cooking oil or water?
Show answers
- Solid, liquid and gas.
- Metal (e.g., copper spoon) is a good conductor.
- Cooking oil is more viscous than water.
Teacher / Parent tip
Use local, safe materials: water (maji), sugar (sukari), cooking oil, stones, rubber bands, and eggs. Always supervise experiments that use heat or breakable items.
Created for learners aged 11 — Science & Technology (Kenya). Keep learning by observing everyday materials around you!