Mortar (masonry)

High school (ages 12+)
Making & Design

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/mortar-masonry

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is mortar and why is it important in building walls?Mortar is a sticky material that holds bricks, stones, and blocks together, keeping walls strong and steady.
2. How does mortar help keep water out of buildings?Mortar fills the tiny gaps between stones or bricks so water and air can't get inside, protecting the structure from damage.

Aggregate: Inert granular material, usually sand, used in mortar to provide bulk and reduce shrinkage.
Hydration: The chemical reaction between cement and water that causes hardening and strength development.
Carbonation: The chemical process where lime mortar hardens by reacting with atmospheric carbon dioxide.