My students need lab type supplies for a new unit called Kitchen Chemistry. In this unit, students will gather statistical data on bouncing popcorn kernels and the chemical reaction between chalk and vinegar.
My grade 8 students are enthusiastic, typical middle schoolers who love the chance to learn from hands-on projects that help make real-world connections. This is the first year all students will have an opportunity to participate in STEM Academy classes as a core class, meeting every day of the school year. The students are fortunate to have access to learning that will prepare them for a future with the integration of core disciplinary subjects in a setting that allows them to explore STEM projects.
My Project
Students will use eye droppers to apply a small but controlled amount of vinegar to small pieces of chalk and observe the chemical and physical changes with magnifying lenses. Using the magnifying lenses allows the students a closer more detailed view. Data will be collected on the number of bubbles that attach to popcorn kernels in an experiment involving a vinegar and baking soda solution in graduated cylinders.
The information gathered from both experiments will be used to calculate statistical measures including mean, median, mode, and range.
Using the data collected, students have the opportunity to tie math (statistics and graphing), science (chemistry), vocabulary from both disciplines, and technology (eye droppers and magnifying lenses) together for a fun learning experience.
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