Year 4 Explore Strange States of Matter with Oobleck

In today's science lesson, Year 4 pupils took part in a practical activity to explore the properties of solids and liquids.

The class investigated Oobleck – a simple mixture of cornflour and water – to see how it behaves. Known as a non-Newtonian fluid, Oobleck has unusual properties: it acts like a solid when squeezed or tapped, but flows like a liquid when left alone.

Pupils discussed the key characteristics of solids and liquids, such as keeping their shape or flowing to fit a container, and compared these to how Oobleck behaved.

This hands-on activity helped them understand that some materials don't fit neatly into the solid or liquid category, prompting thoughtful discussions and curiosity about states of matter and how particles behave in different materials.

Year4 Science - Changes of State