Learning Goals
Students will be able to design and revise a controlled Coca-Cola and Mentos investigation that produces reliable observational and quantitative data about gas release and fountain height.
Students will be able to analyze observations and data about dissolved carbon dioxide, Mentos nucleation sites, gas release, and pressure to determine whether the phenomenon is a physical change or a chemical reaction.
Students will be able to construct a researched scientific explanation connecting carbon dioxide in the Coca-Cola and Mentos phenomenon to photosynthesis, the cycling of matter, and the flow of energy into organisms.
Students will be able to critique and revise an evidence-based explanation of the Coca-Cola and Mentos phenomenon by citing data, responding respectfully to questions, and reflecting on how feedback strengthened the claim and reasoning.
Products
Coca-Cola and Mentos Investigation Notebook and Scientific Explanation
Each student documents the question, safe method with no tasting, variables, raw data, research notes, analysis, and an independently written evidence-based explanation connecting the phenomenon to gas release, physical change, photosynthesis, and matter cycling. The notebook also includes responses to peer critique and a self-assessment showing how the explanation improved.
Illustrated Reaction Explanation Board and Fizz Science Expo Presentation
Each team synthesizes members’ investigation evidence into an illustrated board and oral presentation tracing observations and data to conclusions about nucleation, dissolved carbon dioxide, pressure, physical versus chemical change, and carbon’s role in photosynthesis. Team members defend their explanation, address anomalous findings and audience questions, and complete a group reflection on collaboration and revision.
No rubric has been generated yet.