Aim:
To observe, touch, and compare the physical properties of PVC, wood, and metal to decide which material is best for making a lamp body.
Materials Needed
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Small pieces of PVC pipe, wood, and metal (handled with teacher supervision)
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Marker
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Sandpaper
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Notebook or worksheet
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Table for observations
Steps
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Observation Round:
Place the three materials (PVC, wood, metal) on your desk. Observe their color, surface texture, and weight. -
Touch and Feel:
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Hold each piece.
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Try to bend gently (without breaking).
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Note which one feels lightest and which one is heaviest.
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Tap Test:
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Lightly tap each material on the desk.
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Listen to the sound — which one makes a soft sound and which makes a metallic “ting”?
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Scratch and Smooth Test:
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Rub each material lightly with sandpaper.
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Notice how easily it gets smooth or scratched.
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Observe whether dust or rust appears.
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Water Test (Optional Demo by Teacher):
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Place each material near a few drops of water (not soak).
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Observe: Does it absorb water or stay dry?
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Record Observations:
Use a chart like this:
|
Material |
Weight |
Flexibility |
Water Resistance |
Surface Texture |
Best For Lamp? (Y/N) |
|
PVC Pipe |
Light |
Medium Flex |
Waterproof |
Smooth |
✅ Yes |
|
Wood |
Medium |
Low Flex |
Absorbs water |
Rough |
❌ No |
|
Metal |
Heavy |
No Flex |
Rusts over time |
Shiny |
❌ No |