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7th Grade  Project 1 week

Chemical Quest: Unveiling the Elements!

Nicole G
MS-PS1-1
MS-PS1-2
MS-PS1-5
MS-PS1-3
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse 7th-grade students in the practical application of chemistry concepts by engaging them in the creation of everyday products. Through hands-on experiments and collaborative research, students will deepen their understanding of elements and compounds, observing their roles in chemical reactions and product effectiveness. By designing and testing their own natural cleaning and cosmetic products, students will connect chemistry to real-world contexts, enhancing their ability to analyze and innovate. This experience fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and scientific inquiry, aligning with Next Generation Science Standards and preparing students to appreciate the impact of chemistry in their daily lives.

Learning goals

Students will develop a foundational understanding of the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures by engaging in hands-on experiments and collaborative research. They will analyze and interpret data to identify chemical reactions and understand the conservation of mass in these reactions. Through the design and creation of natural cleaning and cosmetic products, students will apply chemistry concepts to real-world scenarios, enhancing their ability to describe how synthetic materials originate from natural resources and impact society.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS1-1 - Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 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.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS1-5 - Develop and use a model to describe how the total number of atoms does not change in a chemical reaction and thus mass is conserved.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS1-3 - Gather and make sense of information to describe that synthetic materials come from natural resources and impact society.

Products

Students will design and create a natural cleaning product and a homemade cosmetic product, such as lip balm or lotion, using safe household elements and compounds. They will document the chemical reactions involved and test the effectiveness of their cleaning product compared to commercial cleaners. Additionally, students will analyze the chemical properties that make their cosmetic product effective for skin care. These projects will culminate in a 'Chemistry in Our Lives' gallery walk, where students display their creations and engage in discussions about their learning journey.

Launch

Kick off the unit with an interactive chemistry scavenger hunt where students search for common household items that contain specific elements and compounds. Provide clues that lead them to items like baking soda, vinegar, or salt, and have them document their findings. Conclude the activity with a group discussion on how these elements and compounds are used in everyday products, setting the stage for their project work.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the unit, host a "Chemistry in Our Lives" showcase where students present their natural cleaning and cosmetic products to classmates, teachers, and family members. Each student or group can set up a booth displaying their product, complete with documentation of the chemical reactions and effectiveness tests conducted. Encourage students to engage visitors by explaining the chemistry concepts behind their creations, highlighting the role of elements and compounds. This interactive exhibition not only celebrates their achievements but also reinforces their understanding through teaching others.