We are at the end of our MS-Chemical Reactions Unit and ready to dive into the last standard when we get back from winter break. I was hoping to get some ideas on how to structure the lessons to teach this standard. Has anyone taught this yet? If so, do you have any advice? "MS-PS1-6. Undertake a design project to construct, test, and modify a device that either releases or absorbs thermal energy by chemical processes." Many, Many Thanks.
Hi Barbara. I don't know if this is useful or not but I have used this demonstration/experiment in my special needs classrooms and the kids love it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqQSlEViNpk What happens is that the detergent breaks down the surface tension as well as the fat globules in the mild, releasing energy which pushes the food coloring around the bowl. The milk fat globules are phospholipids which are hydrophobic on one end and hydrophilic on the other, the basis for membrane construction. Exothermic chemical reactions release energy which can be harnessed for work (propelling the milk fat globules around) but most is converted into heat.
I have not taught this specific standard, but think making your own hand warmer might be a seasonally appropriate topic. I'd watch the zip-loc bags for signs of softening with the heat generated though. The activity allows for some experimenting with the design so should match the standard. http://www.hometrainingtools.com/a/homemade-hand-warmers
One teacher shared this with me that she had hery kids make an ice pack using an endothermic reaction. Next year, I'm thinking about letting them choose a hot pack or ice pack. Our student growth goals this year are on planning and carrying out investigations so it has a lab component that ask them to write a lab to test the chemicals first before actually constructing their device. She has all the project documents on my teachers pay teachers account. https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Design-a-cool-pack-1679085 Here is another suggestion: http://www.auburn.edu/~cgs0013/Schnittka_Bell_Richards_2010.pdf
Self-Warming20or20Cooling20Device20Project.docx (0.02 Mb)
I haven't tried this yet but I like the idea of it. Seems a little to cookbook but that can be adjusted. http://www.middleschoolchemistry.com/lessonplans/chapter6/lesson11
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