Changes in Matter word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this changes in matter puzzle set for my Year 4 and Year 5 pupils during our physical science unit. The kids could see ice melt and water boil but couldn't explain the difference between physical and chemical changes. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like physical, chemical, reversible, irreversible, reaction, rust, oxidation, reduction, combustion, synthesis, decomposition, reactant, product and catalyst. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the difference finally stick.

The set is six pages. Three puzzles, each with its own answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after break. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether tearing paper is a physical or chemical change. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple before and after drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for Years 4 to 6. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers list two physical changes and two chemical changes on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.