25-30 40 TO 50 MINUTE CLASS PERIODS (5-6 WEEKS)
How do people use chemical reactions to solve problems?

Students analyze and interpret data to determine whether chemical reactions have taken place. They use models to explain what takes place at the atomic/molecular scale during a reaction. They also apply what they learn about chemical reactions to such problems as designing useful products and identifying processes for cleaning up chemical wastes.

PE Assessment Example: Use the reaction you have just studied to design, test, and modify a device that can be used as a handwarmer.

Chemical Reactions is part of Issues and Science three year middle school program, designed by SEPUP at the Lawrence Hall of Science. This three week unit anchors the lessons around the the socio-science issue: How do people use chemical reactions to solve problems? Investigative phenomena within the 13 activities connect back to the issue and storyline. This unit builds towards and assesses PEs PS1-2, PS1-5, PS1-6. The Student Book guides students in exploring a socio-science issue and connected phemonena through a series of varied activity types. Activity types use one of twelve different instructional strategies to apply Science and Engineering Practices to specific Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts. SEPUP's integrated literacy strategies help students process new science content, develop their analytical skills, make connections between related concepts, and express their knowledge orally and in writing. The built-in assessment system helps teachers identify students' strengths and weaknesses from the beginning of the unit. This allows them to adjust activities when needed so that all students get the best chance to build their knowledge and appreciation of science. At the back of the Student Book there is an Appendix containing additional resources for students, such as science skills, literacy strategies, and media literacy among others.