Fizzing Fun: The Elephant Toothpaste Challenge!

5th Grade Project 2 weeks

Fizzing Fun: The Elephant Toothpaste Challenge!

Emeline C

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Purpose

Dive into the world of chemistry by conducting the elephant toothpaste experiment, where you'll plan and carry out a scientific investigation. Through this project, you'll explore the principles of chemical reactions, enhance your scientific inquiry skills, and learn how to effectively communicate your findings. Engage in hands-on learning, collaborate with peers, and showcase your understanding through creative presentations and interactive sessions.

Learning goals

By the end of this project, you will be able to plan and conduct a scientific investigation using the elephant toothpaste experiment, effectively document and present your findings, and engage in critical thinking and collaboration. You will develop skills in creating and delivering a video presentation, designing an interactive poster session, and performing a live demonstration. Additionally, you will enhance your ability to reflect on your learning process and communicate your understanding of chemical reactions through creative storytelling in a comic strip format.

Standards

NGSS - 5-PS1-4: Conduct an investigation to determine whether the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances.
Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.5.4: Report on a topic or text, or present an opinion, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; speak clearly at an understandable pace.
Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.MD.A.1: Convert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system and use these conversions in solving multi-step, real-world problems.

Products

Throughout the project, you will create a comic strip that illustrates each step of your investigation and the chemical reaction in the elephant toothpaste experiment. You will also develop a video presentation that clearly explains your methodology, results, and reflections on the scientific process. Additionally, design an interactive poster showcasing your hypothesis, methods, and outcomes, which will be displayed during the Family Science Night.

Launch

Kick off your project with a 'Chemistry Adventure Quest' where you dive into exciting hands-on challenges related to chemical reactions. Work collaboratively to explore different substances and their reactions, culminating in a group discussion about the science behind elephant toothpaste. This engaging start will set the stage for your investigation, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for the project ahead.

Exhibition

Invite your family and friends to a 'Family Science Night' where you will perform a live demonstration of the elephant toothpaste experiment. Explain the process and your findings to the audience, showcasing your understanding of scientific investigation. Engage your audience by answering their questions and discussing the chemistry behind the reaction. This event will be a fun and interactive way to share your learning journey and celebrate your accomplishments.

Plan

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6
Activities	Participate in the 'Chemistry Adventure Quest' to explore various chemical reactions and engage in group discussions about the science behind elephant toothpaste.	Conduct research and gather information on the chemical reaction involved in the elephant toothpaste experiment, focusing on the substances used and their interactions.	Plan your investigation by defining a clear hypothesis and outlining the steps you'll take to conduct the experiment, including safety precautions and material requirements.	Create a storyboard for your video presentation, identifying the key points you'll cover in explaining your methodology, results, and reflections.	Begin drafting a comic strip that illustrates the steps of your investigation and the chemical reaction process in the elephant toothpaste experiment.	Facilitate a practice interactive poster session with peers to present your investigation plan, receive feedback, and refine your approach.
Deliverables	1. A detailed investigation plan with a clear hypothesis, materials list, and step-by-step procedure. 2. A storyboard for your video presentation, outlining the key points and structure. 3. The first draft of a comic strip depicting the investigation process and chemical reaction.
Preparation

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6	Day 7
Activities	Conduct the elephant toothpaste experiment, carefully following your investigation plan. Document the process and outcomes with photos and notes.	Create a video presentation. Use your storyboard to guide the filming, explaining each step of your experiment, the results, and your reflections.	Finalize your comic strip, incorporating feedback from your peers to clearly illustrate the investigation process and chemical reaction.	Design and complete your interactive poster, including your hypothesis, methodology, and outcomes. Prepare for the poster session by rehearsing your presentation and anticipating questions.	Facilitate a gallery walk where you present your interactive poster to classmates and teachers, receiving further feedback to refine your presentation skills.	Prepare for the 'Family Science Night' by rehearsing your live demonstration. Focus on explaining the scientific principles and engaging with your audience.	Reflect on your learning journey by completing daily journal entries, noting your progress, challenges, and insights gained throughout the project.
Deliverables	1. A video presentation explaining your investigation, results, and reflections. 2. A finalized comic strip illustrating the investigation process and chemical reaction. 3. An interactive poster for the gallery walk and 'Family Science Night' showcasing your hypothesis, methodology, and outcomes.
Preparation