Students will explore the intriguing question of how cellular respiration—a form of combustion—does not result in humans breathing fire. Through hands-on experiments, collaborative learning, and expert consultations with chemical professionals, students will deepen their understanding of chemical reactions, kinetics, thermochemistry, equilibrium, and acids and bases within real-world contexts. The project encourages students to construct models, actively engage in reflective practice, and showcase their findings in an exhibition, fostering a comprehensive grasp of chemistry and its everyday relevance.

Students will investigate the fundamental principles of chemical reactions, delving into concepts such as reaction types, kinetics, thermochemistry, equilibrium, and acids and bases. They will explore how cellular respiration fits into the broader category of combustion reactions without resulting in visible flames, fostering a deeper understanding of real-world chemistry applications. Through engaging activities, expert consultations, and reflective practice, students will develop their ability to model and explain the energy transformations involved in cellular respiration, aligning with Next Generation Science Standards HS-LS1-7.

Students will collaboratively design a dynamic exhibit illustrating cellular respiration as a combustion reaction, reflecting on its principles without fire. They will construct interactive models and infographics demonstrating chemical reactions, kinetics, and thermochemistry concepts. Additionally, students will produce explanatory videos to pair with their exhibit, showcasing their lab-based findings and deeper understanding gained through community partner critiques and reflective journal exchanges. The final exhibit will be showcased to peers, faculty, and invited community partners, such as chemists from Pfizer, highlighting the practical applications of their work.

Kick-off the project with an engaging demonstration where students witness the combustion of sugar as a representation of chemical reactions. Accompany this with a group discussion centered around the essential question, "If respiration is a combustion reaction, how come we don't breathe fire?" This introduction will spark curiosity and set the stage for students to explore the mechanisms and distinctions between combustion and cellular respiration throughout the unit.

Students will create an engaging exhibit to showcase their understanding of chemical reactions, specifically focusing on why respiration, similar to combustion, does not result in fire. This exhibit will include interactive models and demonstrations highlighting kinetics, thermochemistry, equilibrium, and acids and bases. Hosted at the school's science fair, the exhibition will also involve community partners like chemists from Pfizer, who will provide feedback and attend presentations. Students will collaborate in groups to create visual and hands-on displays that not only explain the chemistry concepts but also encourage audience participation and questions.