Lesson 5: Exploring Reactions with the National Geographic Stunning Chemistry Set
Introduce your learners to the amazing world of chemical change through safe, guided experiments that fizz, color, and bubble — igniting curiosity in every young scientist!
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National Geographic Stunning Chemistry Set
Perform 45 easy and impressive experiments — from colorful reactions to erupting volcanoes and simple rockets — designed for hands-on STEM learning and excitement.
View on Amazon(Print-ready homeschool version — includes experiment log sheets and safety checklist.)
Learning Objectives
- Understand the difference between physical and chemical changes.
- Observe and describe visible evidence of reactions (bubbles, color change, temperature, gas formation).
- Practice safe lab habits and data recording.
- Develop critical thinking through predicting and observing outcomes.
Materials Needed
- National Geographic Stunning Chemistry Set
- Protective eyewear and gloves
- Notebook or lab sheet for data recording
- Optional: Thermometer, magnifier, or digital scale
Lesson Procedure
- Warm-Up: Discuss how scientists know a reaction has occurred. Show photos of rust, baking, or fireworks as real-world examples.
- Safety Setup: Review goggles, cleanup materials, and lab zone rules (no touching face, wash hands afterward).
- Reaction Time: Choose 2–3 experiments (bubbling volcano, rocket launch, color change). Have students predict the result and record what happens.
- Observation: Encourage learners to use precise descriptive language — “produced gas,” “temperature increased,” or “solution turned pink.”
- Compare & Contrast: Which experiments produced heat? Which only changed color? Discuss why.
- Cleanup: Safely dispose of materials and wipe the workspace clean.
Discussion & Reflection
- What clues helped you identify a chemical reaction?
- Which experiment was endothermic or exothermic?
- How do chemical reactions connect to things we see daily (cooking, photosynthesis, rust)?
Extensions
- Data Tracking: Graph which experiments had the fastest reaction time or most visible gas production.
- STEM Writing: Write a “reaction recipe” using ingredients, process, and results.
- Cross-Curricular: Connect to earth science (acid rain), biology (enzymes), or kitchen science (baking soda & vinegar).
Parent & Teacher Tips
- Encourage note-taking before and after — hypothesis vs. result.
- Focus on curiosity, not perfection — “Why did this happen?” is the goal.
- Repeat experiments with small variations (temperature, ratio, surface area).
- Always supervise; emphasize proper cleanup and safety habits.
Wrap-Up
Hands-on chemistry transforms abstract science into real, exciting learning. These activities teach observation, patience, and the joy of discovery — all while laying the foundation for future STEM success.
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