This temperature and volume activity helps your learners understand how a substance expands when it becomes warmer. Use this temperature and volume activity to explain the relationship between volume and temperature and also answer the question How does a thermometer work?

Volume and temperature are directly proportional. Instead of a temperature volume diagram (which you can also include in your lesson) I created a temperature and volume activity based on drawing a model.

I love drawing models because models show instead of tell. If you have a diverse learner group with English language learners drawing models is a great way to make your learning content accessible. 

The relationship between volume and temperature becomes clear when students draw the same amount of molecules  WITH EQUAL DISTANCE BETWEEN THEM in a box double the size.

Khan Academy has an article on temperature volume diagrams, if you want to add it to this temperature and volume activity: https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/thermodynamics/laws-of-thermodynamics/a/what-are-pv-diagrams 

Learning Goal

Your learners will be able to
1. Explain the relationship between temperature and volume

2. Explain how a thermometer works

Use this temperatur and volume activity  in your middle school Science classroom once your learners are already able to: 

• describe the molecular structure of atoms and molecules

• draw a molecular model of H2O 

• Explain the states of matter

• Describe the relationship between temperature and molecular movement

• follow the Rules for Science

Remember, to use the Science Sentence Starters with your class to make your classroom discussion accessible to English language learners. 

If you need help with the actual lesson planning check out your FREE guide: The 4Ds of Lesson Planning

In which file format will I receive the resource?

Not-editable secured PDF file

What does this resource include?

• 1 Lesson plan → Click here for more help. 

• 2 graphics of salt dissolving in water

• 2 worksheets with 4 assignments

What can this material be used for?

• Properties of matter unit

• Language inclusive classroom

• CLIL - content and language integrated learning

Other ideas that might be helpful for you:

Science Density STEM Activity (with worksheet)

Solubility Salt in Water

States of Matter Review Activities and Assessment

Science Sentence Starters

Do you have questions, ideas or just want to say “Hi!”?

→ Reach out :)! 

Also, if you want a list of free tips about how to use plain language to create your own English language learner accessible resources, I have another FREE resource for you! 10 tips to get started using plain language

I am excited to hear how your lesson will go, 

Good luck and have fun 🙂

• Susann