Students first get introduced to the concepts of pure substances and mixtures, and the particle theory by doing a photo-hunt for matter in their home and exploring the world of particles through images from electron microscopes. Then students design their own experiments following the scientific method to answer questions about the properties of matter. Scaffolding can be used to encourage gradual release of responsibility for choices of materials and methods. In a second activity, students are required to design and build a water purifying system using basic materials to separate the various ‘pollutants’, with a focus on disposal of the ‘refuse’ of the experiment in an eco-sensitive manner.
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EXPLORING GREEN HOUSES
Categories: Lab/Student Activity
In this design project, students generate scientifically relevant questions concerning efficient buildings, heat transfer, and the conservation of heat. Students will obtain evidence that supports or... read more
Teacher Demo/Student Activity: Glow Sticks
Categories: Lab/Student Activity, Teacher Demonstration
In this demonstration, students observe what happens to activated glow sticks when they are submerged in water at three different temperatures: cold, room temperature, and hot. Students will use... read more
SPEEDBOAT CONTEST: APPLYING PHYSICS TO WIN! SPH3U SPH4C
Categories: Lab/Student Activity
Students work in small groups to design, build, and test a speedboat powered by a hand-made propeller that pushes air. The boats are raced in a 20-foot length of eavestrough filled with water. A set... read more