Metals vs Non-Metals
Compare the physical and chemical properties of metals and non-metals, explaining metallic properties (malleability, lustre, conductivity) and how position in the periodic table predicts reactivity
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
If your child had an unknown substance that was shiny, could be bent without breaking, and conducted electricity, could they identify it as likely a metal and explain how each property points to that conclusion?
Compare the physical and chemical properties of metals and non-metals, explaining metallic properties (malleability, lustre, conductivity) and how position in the periodic table predicts reactivity
Learning resources
Reviewed external links that reinforce this concept. They do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
No reviewed resources for this concept yet.
The teaching approach above still stands. Curated practice links — and later lock-ranked options — will appear here as the shelf fills.
Explore the learning path
1 before · 3 after
This concept
Check understanding
- Lists physical properties typical of metals (shiny, malleable, good conductor) and non-metals
- Explains why metals are used in wires, cookware, and construction based on their properties
- Uses the periodic table to predict whether an element is likely to be reactive or unreactive
- Explains what lustre and malleability mean in terms of real-world observations
“If your child had an unknown substance that was shiny, could be bent without breaking, and conducted electricity, could they identify it as likely a metal and explain how each property points to that conclusion?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Matter & Materials
- Age range
- Ages 11–13
Standards