Looks don't tell the whole story. Young experimenters explore reactions with substances that look similar. They observe the reactions that take place when combined with baking soda and use indicators to conclude they react differently and record their discoveries on a worksheet.

Concepts

chemical reactions, atoms, molecules, indicators, color, temperature, precipitates

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Instructional Ideas

• Have pupils collect data over time and graph results to help make conclusions about the length of the chemical reactions
• Prior to the activity, review the different types of chemical reaction indicators 

Classroom Considerations

• Builds on the previous few lessons in the series related to identifying signs of chemical reactions
• Part 14 in the 16-installment Inquiry in Action series

Pros

• Provides a detailed teaching guide to help plan for the lesson
• Encourages individuals to think critically

Cons

• None