Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Activities
Project Launch and Video Viewing - Watch a short video demonstrating chemical reactions that release or absorb heat, such as a hand warmer or a cold pack, and discuss your initial thoughts and predictions (15 min)
Introduction to Thermal Energy - Conduct a brief experiment using vinegar and baking soda to observe an exothermic reaction and record your observations in your science journal (30 min)
Materials Exploration - Research and list different materials that can be used to construct a device managing thermal energy and predict their effectiveness (20 min)
Design Planning - Begin sketching possible designs for your greenhouse using recycled plastic bottles, focusing on how you will incorporate chemical reactions (25 min)
Prototype Construction - Start constructing the initial model of your greenhouse using recycled plastic bottles based on your design sketches (30 min)
Investigation Setup - Plan and note the steps needed to carry out investigations on chemical reactions affecting temperature inside your greenhouse (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Reflective journal entry detailing observations from the vinegar and baking soda experiment, including sketches and plans for the greenhouse project.
Preparation 1. Prepare and acquire materials such as recycled plastic bottles, vinegar, baking soda, thermometers, and other household items for experiments.
2. Ensure access to a video that demonstrates heat-related chemical reactions.
3. Arrange workspace for building the greenhouse, including tools for cutting and assembling bottles.
4. Set up a science journal template for documenting observations, plans, and reflections.
Week 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Finalize Greenhouse Design - Review your greenhouse model and make any necessary modifications to enhance thermal energy management (20 min)
Conduct Temperature Testing - Use thermometers to measure temperature changes inside your greenhouse during a controlled chemical reaction, such as vinegar and baking soda, and record the results (25 min)
Analyze Data - Examine the temperature data collected from your tests to determine the effectiveness of different chemical reactions and materials in managing thermal energy (20 min)
Reflective Journal Entry - Write a detailed journal entry reflecting on the challenges you faced, what you learned about thermal energy, and how you overcame obstacles during the project (25 min)
Prepare Science Fair Presentation - Create a visual display that includes your data, journal reflections, and photos of your greenhouse project to present at the science fair (20 min)
Set Up Interactive Station - Arrange an interactive station where visitors can see your greenhouse model and discuss your findings at the science fair (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed greenhouse model using recycled plastic bottles, demonstrating the use of chemical reactions to control temperature.
2. Reflective journal entry detailing the challenges faced, solutions found, and lessons learned about thermal energy and chemical processes.
3. Final report presentation, including documented experiment data, analysis of results, and conclusions about the effectiveness of the greenhouse design.
Preparation 1. Gather recycled plastic bottles and other construction materials (like scissors, tape, and glue) for building the greenhouse.
2. Collect chemical reaction materials, such as vinegar, baking soda, and thermometers for measuring temperature changes.
3. Prepare a template for the reflective journal entry to guide reflections on the project process and learning experiences.
4. Set up a space for the science fair exhibition, including tables and display boards for showcasing the greenhouse models and findings.
5. Ensure access to devices for documenting experiment data, such as cameras or tablets for taking photos and videos.