Living Things and Their Environments · Autumn Term

Density and Buoyancy

Investigating the concept of density and its relationship to whether objects float or sink in liquids.

Key Questions

  1. Define density and explain how it is calculated.
  2. Predict whether an object will float or sink based on its density relative to water.
  3. Design an experiment to compare the densities of different liquids.

NCCA Curriculum Specifications

NCCA: Junior Cycle Science - Physical WorldNCCA: Junior Cycle Science - Forces and Motion
Class/Year: 1st Class
Subject: Young Explorers: Investigating Our World
Unit: Living Things and Their Environments
Period: Autumn Term

Suggested Methodologies

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learn-by-doing with structured reflection

30–60 min

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Stations Rotation

Rotate through different activity stations

35–55 min

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Collaborative Problem-Solving

Structured group problem-solving with defined roles

25–50 min

Learn more about Collaborative Problem-Solving

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Planning templates for Young Explorers: Investigating Our World

lesson plan

5E Model

The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.

unit planner

Thematic Unit

Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.

rubric

Single-Point Rubric

Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.

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