"Reaction Reflection: A Chemical Adventure!"

7th Grade Project 3 weeks

"Reaction Reflection: A Chemical Adventure!"

Kaylie L

MS-PS1-1

MS-PS1-2

1-pager

Purpose

Dive into the world of chemical reactions by exploring the atomic composition of molecules and how they transform during reactions. Through hands-on modeling activities and experiments, you'll develop a deeper understanding of molecular structures and the changes that occur when substances interact. This project encourages you to think critically, analyze data, and reflect on your learning journey, culminating in a 'Reaction Reflection Gallery' where you showcase your insights and growth.

Learning goals

Your learning goals for this project include developing models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures, and analyzing data to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred. You will engage in hands-on modeling activities to represent atomic structures, enhancing your understanding of molecular interactions. Through reflective science journaling, you will document your evolving comprehension of chemical reactions, supported by annotated diagrams and digital portfolios. These activities aim to deepen your grasp of chemical properties and reactions, aligning with the specified standards.

Standards

MS-PS1-1 - Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
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.
MS-PS1-1 - Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
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.

Products

Throughout the project, you will create a digital portfolio that showcases your science journal entries, annotated diagrams of molecular structures, and reflections on your evolving understanding of chemical reactions. You'll also develop hands-on molecular models using everyday materials to represent atomic structures. By the end of the project, you will contribute to the 'Reaction Reflection Gallery,' where your work will be displayed for others to explore and learn from your insights and discoveries.

Launch

Begin your project with an interactive demonstration of a simple chemical reaction, such as vinegar and baking soda, to spark curiosity and discussion about what occurs at the atomic level. Follow this with a hands-on activity where you build models of the molecules involved using everyday materials like marshmallows and toothpicks, illustrating atomic composition. Engage in a group brainstorming session to generate questions and predictions about chemical reactions, which you will explore and document in your science journal throughout the project.

Exhibition

Facilitate a gallery walk where you display your digital portfolio and science journals in a 'Reaction Reflection Gallery.' Invite classmates, teachers, and family members to explore your documented learning journey, including your annotated diagrams and reflections. Engage visitors by explaining your models of atomic structures and discussing the chemical reactions you investigated. Encourage feedback and questions to deepen your understanding and showcase your growth in interpreting chemical data.

Plan

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Interactive Demonstration - Begin with an engaging demonstration of a simple chemical reaction using vinegar and baking soda to generate curiosity and spark discussion about atomic-level changes (15 min) Model Building - Use marshmallows and toothpicks to construct models of the molecular structures involved in the reaction, illustrating atomic composition and structure (20 min) Science Journal Entry - Document observations, questions, and initial predictions about the chemical reaction in a reflective science journal (10 min)	Atomic Composition Exploration - Research and discuss the atomic composition of molecules, focusing on how atoms combine to form molecules (15 min) Hands-On Molecular Models - Continue building molecular models using everyday materials to represent different simple molecules, reinforcing understanding of atomic structure (20 min) Reflection and Prediction - Write a science journal entry reflecting on the model-building process and predicting what might happen during a chemical reaction based on the atomic structures modeled (10 min)	Data Analysis Introduction - Introduce the concept of analyzing data to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred, focusing on changes in properties before and after reactions (15 min) Experiment and Observation - Conduct a simple experiment observing a chemical reaction, such as combining baking soda and lemon juice, and note the changes in properties (20 min) Reflection and Conclusion - Document observations in the science journal, noting changes and drawing conclusions about the chemical reaction, including any shifts in understanding (10 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete a science journal entry documenting observations from the vinegar and baking soda reaction. 2. Produce annotated diagrams of the H2O and CO2 molecular models created during the hands-on activity. 3. Write a reflective journal entry summarizing insights gained from analyzing data on chemical reactions.
Preparation	1. Gather materials such as vinegar, baking soda, marshmallows, and toothpicks for demonstrations and modeling activities. 2. Prepare copies of data sets for analyzing the properties of substances before and after chemical reactions. 3. Ensure access to science journals or notebooks for documenting observations, diagrams, and reflections.

Week 2	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6
Activities	Visualizing Atomic Structures - Use a digital tool to simulate the atomic composition of simple molecules, enhancing understanding of their structures and bonds (15 min) Hands-On Modeling - Create physical models of the molecules from the simulation using clay and sticks, reinforcing atomic composition concepts (20 min) Reflective Science Journal - Write a journal entry documenting insights gained from both digital and hands-on modeling activities, focusing on the differences and similarities in representing atomic structures (10 min)	Chemical Properties Analysis - Conduct a research activity on the properties of substances before and after a chemical reaction, identifying key indicators of change (15 min) Experiment Documentation - Perform a guided experiment observing a chemical reaction with new substances, such as combining hydrogen peroxide and yeast, and document changes in properties (20 min) Data Interpretation and Reflection - Analyze data collected from the experiment and write a journal entry reflecting on how the reaction supported or challenged initial predictions (10 min)	Model Refinement - Review and refine molecular models based on new understanding from recent experiments, ensuring accuracy in atomic composition (15 min) Collaborative Discussion - Engage in a group discussion to share findings and interpretations of data from recent experiments, fostering peer learning and critical thinking (20 min) Science Journal Synthesis - Synthesize weekly learnings in the science journal, connecting the week's activities to the essential question and identifying areas for further exploration (10 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete a reflective science journal entry documenting observations and conclusions from hands-on experiments. 2. Create a digital portfolio entry with annotated diagrams of molecular structures formed during experiments. 3. Develop a detailed model of a simple molecule using everyday materials, highlighting atomic composition.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for hands-on modeling activities, including marshmallows, toothpicks, and small balls to represent atoms and bonds. 2. Prepare a safe, well-ventilated space for conducting simple chemical reaction experiments such as vinegar and baking soda. 3. Provide access to digital devices for creating entries in the digital portfolio and capturing images of molecular models. 4. Ensure availability of science journals for documenting observations, predictions, and reflections.

Week 3	Day 7	Day 8	Day 9
Activities	Final Model Review - Conduct a peer review session to evaluate and refine your molecular models, ensuring atomic accuracy and clarity of representation (15 min) Reflection on Learning - Write a detailed science journal entry reflecting on how your understanding of chemical reactions has evolved throughout the project (15 min) Digital Portfolio Compilation - Begin compiling your digital portfolio, organizing science journal entries, annotated diagrams, and reflections on chemical reactions (15 min)	Reaction Reflection Gallery Setup - Prepare your exhibit for the 'Reaction Reflection Gallery', including setting up your digital portfolio and arranging your models and journals for display (15 min) Gallery Walk Preparation - Practice explaining your project and findings to visitors, focusing on your models and key learning insights (15 min) Feedback and Refinement - Conduct a mock exhibition with a peer to receive feedback on your presentation and make final adjustments to your gallery setup (15 min)	Reaction Reflection Gallery Exhibition - Participate in the 'Reaction Reflection Gallery', presenting your digital portfolio and science journals to classmates, teachers, and family members, and explaining your learning journey (25 min) Exhibition Reflection - Write a final science journal entry reflecting on the feedback received during the gallery walk and how it has further enhanced your understanding of chemical reactions (10 min) Project Celebration - Celebrate the completion of the project by sharing insights and experiences with your peers, highlighting key takeaways and future inquiry interests (10 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete and display your digital portfolio in the 'Reaction Reflection Gallery,' including your science journal entries, annotated diagrams, and reflections. 2. Create a final reflective science journal entry summarizing your learning journey, insights gained, and how your understanding of chemical reactions has evolved. 3. Participate in the gallery walk, presenting your work and engaging with visitors by explaining your models and discussing the chemical reactions studied.
Preparation	1. Gather all science journals and digital devices needed to compile and finalize your digital portfolio. 2. Prepare presentation materials for the 'Reaction Reflection Gallery,' such as printed copies of annotated diagrams and descriptions of your models. 3. Set up the gallery space with tables and display boards to showcase your work and ensure there is adequate space for visitors to move around and engage with your exhibits. 4. Coordinate with classmates to arrange the layout of the gallery walk, assigning stations and ensuring all presentations have the necessary resources and materials. 5. Ensure that any digital devices used for the gallery walk are fully charged and have access to any online resources needed for your presentation.