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Essential Question
What question will guide the project and learning?
Community Partners
What organizations and individuals will collaborate and enhance the learning experience?
Reflection
What opportunities are there for us to reflect on our academic and socio-emotional development?
Assessment
In what ways can we demonstrate what we have learned and how we have grown?
Exhibition
How and who will we celebrate our learning with?
Project Launch
What shared experiences will engage us in the content, skills, and mindsets of the project?
Core Content
What will we need to learn and practice in order to engage in the project?
Critique and Revision
How will opportunities for feedback and refinement be embedded in the project?
Product
What will we make, build, or do that will have an impact on us or the world around us?
What question will guide the project and learning?

 How can we create natural cosmetics that are both effective and environmentally sustainable?

8th Grade  Project 4 weeks

"Scent-sational Science: Crafting Eco-Friendly Cosmetics!"

Nicole Garcia
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage 8th-grade students in the exploration and creation of natural cosmetics, emphasizing both effectiveness and environmental sustainability. Through hands-on experiments, design, and community collaboration, students will deepen their understanding of chemistry, product development, and sustainable practices, aligning with science standards. Additionally, students will explore cultural and historical perspectives on natural cosmetics, integrating humanities standards. By involving community partners and younger students, the project also seeks to build connections and inspire a shared commitment to sustainable living, while incorporating Spanish language skills to enhance communication and cultural understanding.

Learning goals

Students will investigate the chemistry of natural ingredients, conducting experiments to understand their properties and suitability for cosmetics, aligning with science standards. They will develop product design skills by creating sustainable packaging and branding, considering target audiences and marketing strategies, which ties into humanities standards. Mathematical skills will be applied to accurately measure and mix ingredients, ensuring consistent product formulations. Spanish language skills can be incorporated by creating bilingual labels or marketing materials, enhancing communication abilities. Through collaboration with community partners and peers, students will refine their products based on feedback, enhancing their ability to iterate and improve. The project will culminate in a public presentation, fostering communication skills and environmental awareness.
Standards
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.W.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.SL.4: Present information, findings, and supporting evidence such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
  • NGSS - MS-PS1-2: Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
  • NGSS - MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
  • Spanish Language Arts - ACTFL Intermediate Mid: Participate in conversations on familiar topics using sentences and series of sentences.
  • Social Studies - D2.Eco.3.6-8: Explain the roles of buyers and sellers in product, labor, and financial markets.

Products

Throughout this project, students will create a range of natural cosmetic products, including perfumes, shampoos, and soaps, integrating Spanish language skills by labeling products and creating bilingual marketing materials. By experimenting with various natural ingredients, they will develop unique formulations that emphasize both effectiveness and sustainability, aligning with science standards on chemical properties and reactions. Each product will be accompanied by custom-designed packaging and branding, reflecting the target audience and eco-friendly considerations, incorporating humanities standards through historical and cultural research on natural cosmetics. The final creations will be showcased at the Natural Cosmetics Fair and 'Scent-sational Showcase,' where students will present their work to the community, demonstrating their understanding and skills.

Launch

Comienza el proyecto con un taller interactivo donde los estudiantes exploren diversos ingredientes naturales utilizados en cosméticos. Invita a un artesano local o experto en cosméticos naturales para que demuestre la creación de un producto simple, como un bálsamo labial o jabón, utilizando estos ingredientes. Anima a los estudiantes a involucrar sus sentidos tocando, oliendo e incluso probando algunos de los ingredientes, despertando curiosidad y emoción para el proyecto. Esta experiencia práctica establecerá el escenario para que los estudiantes generen ideas y discutan sobre sus propias creaciones de cosméticos naturales, integrando estándares de ciencias al investigar las propiedades químicas de los ingredientes, y estándares de humanidades al considerar el impacto cultural y social de los cosméticos naturales.

Exhibition

Students will organize a 'Scent-sational Showcase' at Manchester Elementary School, transforming the venue into an interactive learning environment. Each group will set up a booth where they demonstrate the creation process of their natural cosmetics, allowing younger students to engage in hands-on activities such as mixing ingredients or designing labels. This exhibition will not only display the final products but also educate attendees on the importance of sustainability and the science behind natural cosmetics. Incorporating Spanish, students can present bilingual labels and explanations, while humanities connections can be made by discussing the historical and cultural significance of cosmetic ingredients.
Plan
Week 1 Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
Activities
Activity 1: Launch the project with an interactive workshop. Invite a local natural cosmetics expert to demonstrate the creation of a simple product, such as lip balm or soap, using natural ingredients. Students will engage their senses by exploring various ingredients through touch, smell, and taste.
Activity 2: Introduce students to the essential question: 'How can we create natural cosmetics that are both effective and environmentally sustainable?' Facilitate a brainstorming session where students list potential natural cosmetic products they are interested in creating.
Activity 3: Begin research on natural ingredients. Students will work in groups to investigate the properties of potential ingredients, documenting their findings in a digital portfolio. Focus on understanding pH levels, solubility, and reactions that make these ingredients suitable for cosmetics.
Activity 4: Conduct chemistry experiments to test the properties of selected natural ingredients. Students will record data and observations in their lab notebooks, analyzing how these properties affect the formulation of cosmetics.
Activity 5: Facilitate a session where students design a simple prototype for their chosen cosmetic product. They will sketch initial design ideas and discuss the sustainability of their product, considering both ingredients and packaging materials.
Deliverables
1. Deliverable 1: A digital portfolio entry documenting research findings on the properties and suitability of natural ingredients for cosmetics.
2. Deliverable 2: A lab notebook entry detailing the experiments conducted, observations, and data analysis.
Preparation 1. Prep Task 1: Arrange for a local natural cosmetics expert to conduct the workshop and prepare necessary materials for the demonstration.
2. Prep Task 2: Gather a variety of natural ingredients and supplies for students to explore during the workshop and subsequent activities.
3. Prep Task 3: Prepare digital portfolio templates for students to document their research and experiments.
4. Prep Task 4: Organize lab equipment and safety materials for conducting chemistry experiments in the classroom.
Week 2 Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
Activities
Activity 1: Review the chemistry experiments and findings from Week 1. Facilitate a class discussion to share insights, challenges, and potential improvements. Encourage students to refine their ingredient choices based on the data collected.
Activity 2: Begin the formulation process for the chosen cosmetic products. Students will work in groups to accurately measure and mix ingredients, documenting the process in their lab notebooks. Focus on achieving the desired consistency and effectiveness.
Activity 3: Introduce branding and packaging design. Students will brainstorm brand names, logos, and sustainable packaging ideas for their products. They will sketch designs and consider how to communicate the eco-friendly and effective nature of their products.
Activity 4: Conduct a peer review session where students present their initial product formulations and packaging concepts to classmates. Facilitate constructive feedback focused on product effectiveness, scent, and design appeal.
Activity 5: Test and Tweak Day: Invite younger students from Manchester Elementary School to try out the prototypes. Gather feedback on usability and appeal, and encourage students to make necessary adjustments to their formulations and designs.
Deliverables
1. Deliverable 1: Lab notebook entries with detailed documentation of ingredient measurements, mixing process, and initial formulation results.
2. Deliverable 2: Draft branding and packaging designs, including sketches and rationale for sustainability choices.
3. Deliverable 3: Peer and younger student feedback summaries, highlighting areas for improvement in product formulations and designs.
Preparation 1. Prep Task 1: Ensure all necessary materials and ingredients are available for the formulation process, including scales, mixing tools, and storage containers.
2. Prep Task 2: Provide resources and examples of branding and packaging to inspire student designs, focusing on sustainable practices.
3. Prep Task 3: Arrange the logistics for the peer review session and coordinate with Manchester Elementary School for the involvement of younger students.
4. Prep Task 4: Set up a feedback collection system, such as digital forms or feedback sheets, to facilitate the Test and Tweak Day.
Week 3 Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
Activities
Activity 1: Begin the week with a reflection session where students update their digital portfolios with the progress made so far. Encourage them to include photos, videos, and written reflections on their product development journey.
Activity 2: Facilitate a critique and revision session with community partners from Manchester Elementary School. Students will present their current product formulations and packaging designs, receiving insights and suggestions for improvement.
Activity 3: Focus on finalizing product formulations. Students will incorporate feedback to adjust ingredient combinations, ensuring the desired scent, effectiveness, and sustainability. They will document all changes in their lab notebooks.
Activity 4: Continue with branding and packaging design. Students will refine their branding elements and finalize sustainable packaging, ensuring materials are ready for production. They will create digital mock-ups and prototypes.
Activity 5: Organize a peer review session focusing on the refined formulations and packaging. Students will present their nearly finished products to classmates for final feedback, making any last-minute improvements before moving to production.
Deliverables
1. Deliverable 1: Updated digital portfolio entries capturing the development process, including reflections, photos, and videos.
2. Deliverable 2: Lab notebook entries with detailed documentation of formulation adjustments and final ingredient lists.
3. Deliverable 3: Finalized branding and packaging designs, including digital mock-ups and physical prototypes.
Preparation 1. Prep Task 1: Coordinate with community partners to schedule critique sessions and ensure they have access to student work prior to meetings.
2. Prep Task 2: Ensure availability of all necessary materials for final formulation adjustments, including additional ingredients and packaging supplies.
3. Prep Task 3: Provide resources for digital portfolio updates, such as cameras or tablets for photo and video documentation.
4. Prep Task 4: Set up the classroom for peer review sessions, arranging spaces for presentations and feedback collection.
5. Prep Task 5: Prepare examples and resources on effective branding and packaging to guide students in finalizing their designs.
Week 4 Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
Activities
Activity 1: Final Production Session. Students will produce their final natural cosmetic products, using their finalized formulations and packaging designs. Ensure all products are ready for the showcase and fair.
Activity 2: Prepare for the 'Scent-sational Showcase.' Students will organize and set up their interactive booths, focusing on how to engage younger students with hands-on activities and demonstrations of their cosmetic creation process.
Activity 3: Conduct a rehearsal for the Natural Cosmetics Fair. Students will practice presenting their products, explaining the ingredients, process, and sustainability considerations, simulating the feedback and questions they may receive.
Activity 4: Host the Natural Cosmetics Fair at Manchester Elementary School. Students will present their final products to the community, receiving feedback and answering questions from teachers and students.
Activity 5: Digital Portfolio Completion and Reflection. Students will update their digital portfolios with final product photos, videos from the fair, and written reflections on their project journey, highlighting key learning moments and personal growth.
Deliverables
1. Deliverable 1: Final natural cosmetic products, including completed packaging and branding.
2. Deliverable 2: Digital portfolio entries with comprehensive reflections, final product documentation, and multimedia elements from the project.
Preparation 1. Prep Task 1: Ensure all ingredients and packaging materials are available for the final production session.
2. Prep Task 2: Coordinate with Manchester Elementary School to arrange the logistics for the 'Scent-sational Showcase' and Natural Cosmetics Fair, including space and necessary permissions.
3. Prep Task 3: Provide materials and resources for booth setup, such as tables, display boards, and interactive activity supplies.
4. Prep Task 4: Prepare digital devices for capturing photos and videos during the fair and showcase for digital portfolio updates.
5. Prep Task 5: Arrange feedback forms or digital feedback collection methods for attendees at the fair to provide constructive comments on student presentations.
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