Four lessons comprise the first chapter in the Inquiry in Action Unit module. Sorting objects by properties is an instructional activity in justification. Second graders examine the properties of specific items and use them to classify the objects into self-created categories. Young scholars also research the properties of plastics, paper, and aluminum foil to determine which is best for storing food. Then, a hands-on lesson teaches learners about the absorbency properties of substances. They conduct tests by dipping different materials in water to determine which holds water. Finally, pupils connect the properties of materials to their usefulness by building a paper boat. They test different papers to determine how many pennies each boat will hold. They learn that combining materials with different properties serve different purposes.
