Chemical Reactions
Do you know the difference between a physical reaction and a chemical reaction? In a physical change, no new substance is made, like water melting from ice to liquid. In a chemical change, usually, two or more substances are combined and something new is formed, often with fizzy bubbles or a color change. Let's explore!

Today’s Activities

Watch and Journal

Watch this 8-minute video on Physical and Chemical Changes from Generation Genius. Then scroll under the video to the Discussion Questions and click. Journal your responses to the 9 questions under “After Video.” Try not to peek at the answers!

Experiment

Try the Milk and Soap Experiment at home. What do you think is happening in this phenomenon? Is it a physical or chemical reaction?

Explore

Could you transform something worthless into gold?  In this Mystery Science video, you will investigate the ancient alchemists’ claim of transforming ordinary metals into gold.

In the activity, “The King’s Sword,” you will use the vinegar, salt, and penny solution that was created in the previous lesson called “Are Magic Potions Real?”

You can do this lesson along with Mystery Doug. If not, follow along and watch Doug teach.

History

What does a scientist look like? Meet Marie Curie! Not only was she the first female scientist to win the Nobel Peace Prize, but she also made heroic discoveries of new elements that helped make something we use in hospitals every day!

Read her story from National Geographic to find out,  then journal down 3-5 facts that most surprised you.

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More 5th Grade Lessons

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