8th Grade  Project 2 weeks

"Lava Lamp Lab: Bubble Science Fun!"

Alexa T
MS-PS1-6
MS-PS1-6
VA:Cr2.1.8a
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Dive into the fascinating world of chemistry and art by designing and building your own lava lamp. Through this hands-on project, you'll explore the principles of density and immiscibility, while also developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Engage in self-directed learning by reflecting on your progress and using feedback to refine your design. This project will not only deepen your understanding of scientific concepts but also enhance your ability to innovate and express creativity in a meaningful way.

Learning goals

Design and build a working lava lamp prototype that demonstrates the principles of density and immiscibility. Engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by exploring innovative approaches to constructing and modifying your lava lamp. Develop self-directed learning skills by using feedback and self-reflection to guide your project. Establish a sense of identity and belonging by connecting scientific concepts to real-world applications and sharing your findings with peers.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS1-6 - Undertake a design project to construct, test, and modify a device that either releases or absorbs thermal energy by chemical processes.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS1-6 - Undertake a design project to construct, test, and modify a device that either releases or absorbs thermal energy by chemical processes.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr2.1.8a - Demonstrate willingness to experiment, innovate, and take risks to pursue ideas, forms, and meanings that emerge in the process of art-making or designing.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Develop a functioning lava lamp prototype using everyday materials, capturing the process in a video tutorial that clearly explains the scientific principles of density and immiscibility. Present your research on the history and science of lava lamps through a concise presentation, highlighting key discoveries and innovations. Demonstrate your lava lamp in a live session, articulating each step and the underlying scientific concepts to your classmates, and engage with their questions to deepen understanding.

Launch

Kick off your lava lamp project with an engaging hands-on experiment where you explore the concept of density using various liquids like water, oil, and syrup. Observe how these liquids layer due to their different densities and discuss how this principle is crucial to the functioning of a lava lamp. Capture your observations and initial thoughts in a science journal, setting the stage for your design project. This activity will spark curiosity and provide foundational knowledge for your upcoming project work.

Exhibition

Host a "Lava Lamp Science Fair" where you present your functioning lava lamp prototypes alongside your video tutorials. Invite classmates, teachers, and family members to explore your projects, ask questions, and engage with the scientific concepts you've demonstrated. Facilitate a gallery walk where you can view and provide feedback on each other's work, focusing on creativity, scientific understanding, and presentation skills. Conclude with a reflection session to discuss the learning journey, challenges faced, and insights gained throughout the project.