Investigate how temperature affects the density of water and stratification that occurs in bodies of water when temperatures vary. Water of differing temperatures is given different colors to see the layers that form. The lesson is meant...

A video and laboratory investigation are highlights to this lesson on acidification of ocean water due to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide. Using bromothymol blue (BTB) as an indicator, pupils analyze the amount of carbon dioxide...

Students conduct a series of investigations on the unique properties of water. In this general science lesson, students explain what causes water's surface tension. They explain the different stages in the water cycle.

In groups of three with the lights off and the shades drawn, investigators place inactivated light sticks, in three beakers: one filled with ice water, another with lukewarm water, and the other with room temperature water. They wait...

Consider our energy sources: wood, coal, oil, uranium. Learners compare the pollution to energy produced for each. They practice fractional distillation of an alcohol/water mixture to simulate the process of refining crude oil....

Students use video, Internet research, graphs and tables, worksheets and hands-on experiments to investigate the properties of water in a lake environment. They work under direction or through an inquiry process.

Students investigate the carbon dioxide content of different sodas. For this chemistry lesson, students explain why PET containers are preferable than HDPE for soda bottles. They collect data and graph them.

Ninth graders investigate the effect of different gases in the atmosphere. In this chemistry lesson, 9th graders explain how these gases contribute to global warming. They suggest possible solutions to this growing problem.

Students examine various pond water samples to identify water quality. In this water quality lesson, students will identify levels of nitrates, ammonia, pH, hardness,and alkalinity in pond water. They will explain importance of water...

Using cabbage juice as a pH indicator, future scientists explore the effect of increasing carbon dioxide on the pH of the ocean and relate it to the health of coral reefs. Ideal for an earth or environmental sciences course, this lesson...

Students look into the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. In this chemistry lesson, students look at the hydrocarbon molecule through a model and see what happens when energy is released. They watch as the water vapor leaves...

Students explore the nature of water and water molecules. They examine the role of ice on organisms.

Students explore the importance of water. They discuss why water is important and students design an experiment that evaluates the water quality and methods of improving water quality. Students perform testing and report their findings.

Students investigate various chemical reactions when creating mixtures in ziplock baggies. For this chemistry lesson, students will recognize various chemical reactions and cite evidence. Safety and assessment strategies are included in...

Students use indicator paper to determine if substances are acidic, basic, or neutral. They test for Ph levels in them. They investigate the effect of oxygen on darkening fruit cut and exposed to the air. They observe vitamin C as an...

Students investigate the pH of solutions and they learn how to use different types of indicators. In this pH lesson plan, students test various solutions with pH paper and determine if they are acidic, basic or neutral. They also test...

Students become familiar with real-world gathering of chemical data. The experience how the science is done: the nature of analysis, data collection, interpretation, and presentation. They study a nearby body of water for their experiment.

Fifth graders examine polymers and how they are formed.  In this chemistry instructional activity students complete their own polymer experiment then discuss what they learned. 

Students conduct a series of experiments on water electrolysis. For this chemistry lesson, students explain what happens to the molecules during the process. They cite real world applications of electrolysis.

Middle schoolers explore acids, bases, and indicators. They use turmeric solution, phenolphthalein, and goldenrod paper to determine the acidity and basicity of a variety of common household substances. A worksheet is included to record...

Hate to vacuum, but enjoy using a vacuum pump? Explore a lesson that starts with a demonstration of boiling water at various temperatures by using a vacuum pump. Then scholars design their own experiments to measure vapor pressure and...

Seventh graders perform an experiment to determine the effect of temperature on reaction rates. In this chemistry lesson plan, 7th graders take measurements and record data. They create a graph and analyze results.

Eighth graders explain the difference between acids, bases and neutral solutions. In this chemistry lesson, 8th graders describe the properties of each. They determine the pH of an unknown solution using the indicator paper and pH scale.

Though the publisher designated this unit for use with third through eighth grades, this particular lesson would be best used with middle schoolers due to the specific measurement skills required. Basically, they set up the reaction...