Paper is useful stuff

Paper is useful stuff

Pencil and paper
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
Further Resources
This task is about the uses of different types of paper.
a)
In our homes we use paper for a lot of things.
In the box below write in as many uses of paper that you can think of.
 
 
 
 

 
 
 

 
   
b)
Your teacher will now give you some examples of paper. Fill in the table below for each type of paper you are given. 
 
Type of paper What could this paper be used for? Explain why this paper is special for this job.
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
    
Task administration: 
This task can be completed with pencil and paper. 
 
Equipment
Examples of various paper types, e.g., tissue paper, paper towel, white A4 paper, toilet paper, newspaper, etc.
  • Each type of paper should be named, i.e., tissue paper, A4 paper, etc.
  • Students could either write the names of these pieces of paper on their sheets under "Type of paper" in part b), or glue in examples of each type of paper.
  • The instructions can be given orally for this assessment.
  • Prior teaching of how properties of materials relate to their use is required.
Level:
2
Curriculum info: 
Science, Investigating in science, Material World
Keywords: 
properties, physical properties, paper, material use
Description of task: 
In this practical students are first required to identify as many uses of paper they can think of. Then, using samples of different paper types, they identify particular uses for that type of paper and reasons why the paper is used for this purpose.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask.
 
Capability: Use evidence
This resource provides opportunities to discuss what evidence could be used to back up ideas.
Science capabilities: 
Use evidence
Making Better Sense: 
Physical Change
Answers/responses: 
a) Look for students' ability to think of a range of uses, e.g., wiping nose, cleaning up liquid spills, writing on, wiping bottoms, etc.
b)

Look for students' ability to:

  • describe a relevant use for the type of paper (not necessarily the intended use)
  • identify a valid property of the paper for that particular use, e.g.,
Type of paper Use Property
Paper towel To wipe up liquids. Thick with lots of spaces that can hold water