The NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter “Materials Around Us” is an essential building block for young learners to understand the diverse world of materials. From paper and plastic to glass and metals, the chapter opens the doors to scientific observation, logical classification, and real-world applications of materials in our daily lives.
At BodhiClasses, we believe in building strong scientific foundations through experiential learning and relatable examples. This analysis decodes the core concepts, learning objectives, and pedagogical approach of this insightful chapter.
Chapter Overview: “Materials Around Us” – What the Chapter Teaches
This chapter encourages students to shift their perspective from merely looking at objects to observing materials — their properties, differences, and uses. It focuses on:
- Identifying materials around us.
- Classifying them based on observable properties.
- Understanding their suitability for different uses.
- Exploring the concept of matter, mass, and volume.
Section-Wise Breakdown and Analysis of Materials Around Us
Section 6.1: Observing Objects Around Us
The chapter opens with a story of Ghulan and Sheeta who bring new stationery to school after summer break. This relatable setting leads to an exploration of the materials used in everyday objects. Students are encouraged to look at items like notebooks, pens, lunch boxes, etc., and note down the materials they are made of.
🧠 Learning Objective: To develop awareness and curiosity about materials in immediate surroundings.
Section 6.2: How to Group Materials?
This section introduces the concept of classification. Students learn that objects can be grouped based on:
- Shape
- Color
- Texture
- Hardness or softness
- Shine (lustre)
- The material they are made of
It discusses how ancient civilizations like the Sindhu-Sarasvati (Harappan) Civilization used refined techniques to craft pottery — showing that classification and selection of materials is an age-old practice.
🧠 Learning Objective: Understand that classification helps in organizing and simplifying knowledge of materials.
Section 6.3: Properties of Materials
This is the core of the chapter, detailing various physical properties used for material classification:
6.3.1 Appearance and Lustre
- Lustrous materials (usually metals) have a shiny surface.
- Non-lustrous materials like paper or wood appear dull.
6.3.2 Hardness and Softness
- Materials that resist scratching (like iron) are hard.
- Materials that can be compressed or scratched easily (like sponge) are soft.
6.3.3 Transparency
- Transparent: Glass, water (clear visibility)
- Translucent: Butter paper, frosted glass (partial visibility)
- Opaque: Wood, metal (no visibility)
6.3.4 Solubility in Water
- Soluble: Salt, sugar (disappear in water)
- Insoluble: Sand, sawdust (do not dissolve)
6.3.5 Heaviness (Mass)
- Comparison of objects based on their mass.
6.3.6 Volume and Space
- Matter occupies space. Volume is a measurable property (Litre/mL).
- Students understand volume via fun classroom scenarios and water bottle activities.
🧠 Learning Objective: To introduce critical scientific properties and help students link them with material use.
Section 6.4: What is Matter?
The chapter culminates with the introduction of the concept of matter. Anything that:
- Occupies space and
- Has mass
is considered matter — including solids, liquids, and gases.
This lays a scientific foundation for future topics in physics and chemistry.
🧠 Learning Objective: Define matter and its basic measurable properties – mass and volume.
Ancient Indian Perspective: A Touch of Ayurveda
The chapter also introduces Ayurveda’s classification of matter using ten pairs of opposite properties (e.g., hot-cold, soft-hard, dry-oily), emphasizing that classification is deeply embedded in Indian knowledge systems.
✨ BodhiClasses Insight: We love how this NCERT chapter integrates science with heritage! At BodhiClasses, we promote such holistic education that blends tradition with modern scientific understanding.
Key Takeaways
- Materials can be grouped based on properties like hardness, shine, transparency, solubility, etc.
- Every material has a purpose based on its properties.
- The terms mass, volume, and matter are crucial concepts introduced here.
- Not all shiny materials are metals, and not all metals remain shiny forever.
- Classification makes learning easier and more organized — a practice followed since ancient times.
Learning Outcomes (As Aligned With NEP Goals)
| Skill Developed | How it is Achieved |
|---|---|
| Observation | Through real-life examples and activities |
| Classification | By grouping materials based on properties |
| Critical Thinking | Through “Why” questions and scenario-based tasks |
| Hands-on Learning | Activities like solubility tests and bounce tests |
| Cultural Context | Introduction of Ayurvedic classification system |
