The activities in this book are intended to help children discover and investigate the properties of paper, metals, fabrics, wood, plastics and building materials. It also encourages them to think about the place of these materials in the environment. Linking up with these activities is a photocopiable anthology section of action rhymes, poems, stories and songs, all based on the materials themes. In addition there are photocopiable sheets plus ideas for displays and assemblies. A topic web links the activities to both the National Curriculum and the Scottish 5-14 National Guidelines.