Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Activities
Project Launch - Participate in a demonstration of a simple chemical reaction like baking soda and vinegar to observe an exothermic or endothermic process and discuss real-world applications (20 min)
Brainstorming Session - Brainstorm everyday situations where controlling thermal energy is crucial, like hand warmers or cold packs, and generate initial ideas for your thermal energy device design (25 min)
Research and Exploration - Conduct short research on different materials and chemical processes that impact thermal energy release and absorption, compiling notes for your device design (30 min)
Design Sketching - Create a preliminary sketch of your device design, including materials needed and chemical processes involved, based on your research findings (15 min)
Blueprint Creation - Develop a detailed blueprint of your device design, specifying materials, chemical processes, and expected outcomes based on scientific principles (25 min)
Planning Investigations - Plan the steps for testing your device design, outlining the investigation process to gather evidence supporting your design solution (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Blueprint of the device design
2. List of materials required for the device
3. Description of the chemical processes involved
Preparation 1. Gather materials for the hands-on demonstration, including baking soda, vinegar, and containers
2. Prepare brainstorming tools, such as large paper for sketching and markers
3. Provide access to resources on chemical reactions and thermal energy transfer, such as textbooks or online articles
4. Set up a collaborative space for students to discuss and refine their ideas
Week 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Prototype Construction - Gather materials and begin constructing your thermal energy device based on your blueprint, ensuring all components are assembled correctly (45 min)
Initial Testing - Conduct your first round of tests on the thermal energy device, recording observations and data on the energy release or absorption efficiency (25 min)
Data Analysis - Analyze the test results to identify areas for improvement, focusing on the effectiveness of the chemical processes and materials used (20 min)
Design Modification - Refine and modify your device based on the test data, making adjustments to enhance performance and efficiency (30 min)
Reflection and Documentation - Write a section of your lab report summarizing the modifications made and the rationale behind them, preparing for final testing (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed thermal energy device
2. Detailed lab report documenting the design process, investigation steps, data collected, modifications made, and conclusions drawn
Preparation 1. Ensure all construction materials and tools are available for building the device.
2. Prepare data collection sheets or digital tools for recording observations during testing.
3. Organize a rubric or checklist for the lab report to guide data analysis and ensure all critical sections are included.
4. Set up a space for testing devices safely, with appropriate safety equipment and measures in place.