Science · KS1 · Everyday Materials
KS1 Everyday Materials Science for Years 1–2
Children need to separate an object from the material it is made from. A spoon is an object; metal, wood or plastic may be the material. Properties such as hard, flexible, transparent or waterproof help explain why materials suit different jobs.
What to understand in this topic
- distinguish the name of an object from the material used to make it
- describe observable properties using appropriate vocabulary
- compare materials for a particular purpose
- recognise simple changes of shape without assuming a new material has been created
A common point of confusion
An object and a material are not interchangeable terms. “Window” describes the object; “glass” describes one material from which a window can be made.
Try a quick example
Question: Which property makes glass useful for many windows: transparent or absorbent?
Answer: Transparent.
A transparent material lets light pass through so people can see through it.
This is a fixed educational example on the page, not a customer result and not a live tutor response.
What a parent can try at home
Choose five household objects and ask what each is made from. Then choose one object and discuss why a different material might be unsuitable.
How NexEdu practises this
NexEdu can practise material names, properties and suitability through short questions. Safe handling and first-hand testing of materials should be supervised by an adult or teacher.
NexEdu provides guided questions throughout the child’s available daily tutoring time. A hint can follow an incorrect answer, and two consecutive incorrect answers trigger a brief reteach before practice continues. Same-day topic progress can resume where the child left off.
About the information on this page
The educational summary helps parents understand the science topic and its place in the National Curriculum in England. Online practice does not replace supervised practical work, safety instruction or professional health advice where relevant.