Chemistry Lab

We just started Chemistry with our 3rd grader. We are using R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey -Chemistry by Pandia Press and although we are just starting, we already love it. We've used other R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey books before and my kids love the hands on approach and the overall "fun" factor. So do I. Today's lab illustrates the different types of tests a Chemist might use, physical and chemical. Here are our supplies:


Note that we are still using "camping" style for our decor as our "household goods" have not been packed and moved yet, lol.

For the physical test, the students were to observe the three "chemicals" which were visually very similar and notice their physical characteristics (look, smell, and touch. Students were warned never to taste an unknown substance.).



Following the physical test, the students did various chemical tests to notice the way the substances reacted with water, oil, and vinegar. The blue food coloring added a nice cool factor to the test.




It was also sufficiently messy to keep two boys happy for almost 45 minutes, but not so messy that Mom could not keep up. A definite success in my book :o)