Ceramics

Ceramics are materials made from nonmetallic minerals such as clay, quartz, and feldspar. They can be found in everyday items like dishes, tiles, and decorative objects. Let's learn more about ceramics!

Types of Ceramics

There are two main types of ceramics: earthenware and stoneware. Earthenware is softer and porous, while stoneware is harder and more durable. Both types are used to make different kinds of pottery and other objects.

How Ceramics Are Made

To make ceramics, clay is shaped into the desired form, then fired in a kiln at high temperatures. This process hardens the clay and gives it the strength and durability needed for everyday use.

Uses of Ceramics

Ceramics have many uses. They are used to make dishes, cups, and bowls for eating and drinking. They are also used to make tiles for floors, walls, and roofs. Additionally, ceramics are used in decorative art, such as sculptures and vases.

Fun Fact

Did you know that some ceramics are also used in engineering applications, such as in making parts for rockets and spacecraft?

Study Guide

What are ceramics made from?
a) Metal
b) Nonmetallic minerals
c) Plastic
What are the two main types of ceramics?
a) Soft and hard
b) Earthenware and stoneware
c) Glass and porcelain
How are ceramics hardened?
a) By freezing
b) By firing in a kiln
c) By soaking in water
What are some uses of ceramics?
a) Making jewelry
b) Building houses
c) Making dishes, tiles, and decorative objects

Now you know all about ceramics! Great job!

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Second Grade. What is science?

Vocabulary/Answer key

What is science?

The resources above cover the following skills:

LIFE SCIENCE

Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics

Obtain information from literature and other media to illustrate that there are many different kinds of living things and that they exist in different places on land and in water (e.g., woodland, tundra, desert, rainforest, ocean, river).

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Earth’s Systems

Make observations from media to obtain information about Earth’s events that happen over a short period of time (e.g., tornados, volcanic explosions, earthquakes) or over a time period longer than one can observe (e.g., erosion of rocks, melting of glaciers).

Collect and evaluate data to identify water found on Earth and determine whether it is a solid or a liquid (e.g., glaciers as solid forms of water; oceans, lakes, rivers, streams as liquid forms of water).