Reception States of Matter Science Lesson – Using Thermometers and Stopwatches

This Reception states of matter lesson helps children perform simple scientific tests using real equipment. Through practical investigations, children learn how to use thermometers and stopwatches while exploring temperature, melting and changes in materials.

Focusing on the enquiry skill of performing simple tests and using equipment, children investigate how quickly ice melts in warm, cold and hot water. They observe temperature changes, discuss their findings and begin using scientific vocabulary to describe what they notice.

What is included in this Reception science lesson?

• Teaching slides introducing temperature, melting and scientific equipment
• Practical thermometer investigation exploring hot and cold temperatures
• Ice melting investigation using different temperatures of water
• Stopwatch activities to support timing and observation skills
• Bubble investigation exploring air and movement
• Balloon timing challenge using stopwatches
• Full lesson plan with teacher-led, independent and continuous provision activities

Developing scientific enquiry skills

Children learn how scientists use equipment to gather information and carry out tests. By using thermometers and stopwatches, they begin developing important observation and measuring skills while exploring how temperature affects materials.

The lesson encourages children to make predictions, observe changes and discuss what happens when ice melts. These practical experiences help build confidence in scientific enquiry and support early understanding of solids, liquids and temperature.

EYFS learning opportunities

• Understanding the World: Exploring temperature, melting and materials
• Communication and Language: Discussing observations and scientific ideas
• Mathematics: Using timers and comparing results
• Physical Development: Handling scientific equipment safely and carefully

This lesson forms part of our Reception States of Matter science unit within the EYFS Science Scheme. The unit helps children develop scientific enquiry skills while exploring materials and changes in the world around them.