Young chemists grow ionic crystals, metallic crystals, and supersaturated crystals in three different lab experiments. Observing these under a microscope allows pupils to compare the various structures. 

Concepts

crystal formation, crystal structure, crystals, saturated solutions, anions, cations, chemical compounds, evaporation, ionic compounds

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Contact a geologist to visit the class
• Instruct pupils to create a Venn diagram of ionic vs. metalic crystals

Classroom Considerations

• Experiments require a window with sunlight or a strong light source
• Plan for the proper disposal of test tubes; you might have to throw many of them away by the end of the third experiment
• Lesson seven in an 11-part series

Pros

• Lesson provides background information
• The resource includes extension ideas
• Includes many differentiation strategies at the end of the lesson

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.9-10.3 RST.11-12.3