Foam Frenzy Showdown!

Plan

10th Grade Project 5 weeks

Foam Frenzy Showdown!

Mary T

C.1D

C.1B

C.1A

C.1C

C.9C

+ 7 more

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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in a hands-on, real-world chemistry project that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through the "elephant toothpaste" challenge, students will explore the mathematical relationships in chemical reactions, optimize resource use, and apply scientific principles to achieve the most impressive foam eruption. This project encourages collaboration, effective communication, and self-directed learning, allowing students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application while building confidence and a sense of belonging in the scientific community.

Learning goals

Students will accurately write and balance chemical equations, identifying and explaining the role of limiting reactants in chemical reactions. They will perform stoichiometric calculations to predict and compare theoretical and actual yields, using data to analyze discrepancies. Learners will collaboratively design and execute a chemistry experiment, applying scientific practices and safety protocols, while effectively communicating their findings through lab reports and presentations.

Standards

[Texas] C.1D - use appropriate tools such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), scientific or graphing calculators, computers and probes, electronic balances, an adequate supply of consumable chemicals, and sufficient scientific glassware such as beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, pipettes, graduated cylinders, volumetric flasks, and burettes
[Texas] C.1B - apply scientific practices to plan and conduct descriptive, comparative, and experimental investigations and use engineering practices to design solutions to problems
[Texas] C.1A - ask questions and define problems based on observations or information from text, phenomena, models, or investigations
[Texas] C.1C - use appropriate safety equipment and practices during laboratory, classroom, and field investigations as outlined in Texas Education Agency-approved safety standards
[Texas] C.9C - perform stoichiometric calculations, including determination of mass relationships, gas volume relationships, and percent yield
[Texas] C.9D - describe the concept of limiting reactants in a balanced chemical equation.

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.
Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will create a comprehensive lab report that details their experimental process, including chemical equations, stoichiometric calculations, and analysis of their foam eruption's efficiency. They will also produce a presentation that showcases their team's live foam demonstration, supported by visual data representations and a clear explanation of their scientific methodology. Additionally, students will engage in peer feedback sessions to refine their communication skills and collaboratively improve their experimental designs.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Chemistry Carnival' where students rotate through interactive stations featuring different chemical reactions, including mini foam experiments. This hands-on experience allows students to explore the concepts of reactants, products, and limiting reactants in an engaging and practical way. Follow the carnival with a 'Science Showdown' event, showcasing a series of short, captivating videos of various chemical reactions, sparking group discussions to analyze the mathematical relationships and principles behind each reaction.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the project, host a "Foam Fest Showcase" where each team presents their foam eruption to an audience of peers, teachers, and community members. Teams will explain their experimental design, calculations, and the scientific principles behind their approach. Encourage students to create engaging posters or digital presentations to accompany their demonstrations, highlighting their problem-solving process and results. The event will also feature a panel of judges who will evaluate the presentations based on creativity, scientific accuracy, and effectiveness of communication. This celebration of learning will be shared on social media platforms, allowing students to receive feedback and recognition from a broader audience.