Grades 6-8 | 11 (45 min) Classes

Topics Covered

Chemical Reactions | Law of Conservation of Mass

Essential Question

How can a model rocket launch be used to create a mdoel of chemical reactions and the Law of Conservation of Mass?

Overview

In this unit, students will answer the question, how can a model rocket launch be used to create a model of chemical reactions and the Law of Conservation of Mass?

Students will classify chemical and physical changes, identify indicators that a chemical reaction has taken place and conduct an experiment that will allow them to see the Law of Conservation of Mass in a chemical reaction. Students will apply their analysis of these results to the decision of what data is necessary to collect from a model rocket launch that will support the Law of Conservation of Mass. They will apply that knowledge to the creation of a model that represents the Law of Conservation of Mass in a model rocket launch. Following the data collection during launch, students will compare results and apply those results to a classification of open and closed systems.

Throughout the unit, students will be creating and revising a model of the Law of Conservation of Mass, ultimately using that model to complete a Claim-Evidence-Reasoning paragraph that answers the Essential Question.

Materials

Each Student Needs:

  • Student Design Portfolio
  • Safety Goggles
  • Clipboard

Each Classroom Needs:

Standards

NGSS_logo

MS-PS1-2

Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.

MS-PS1-5

Develop and use a model to describe how the total number of atoms does not change in a chemical reaction and thus mass is conserved.

MS-ETS1-4

Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

Science and Engineering Practices (SEP)

Asking and defining problems
Developing and using models
Planning and carrying out investigations
Analyzing and interpreting data
Engaging in argument from evidence

Cross Cutting Concepts (CCC)

Systems and system models
Energy and matter

Common-Core-Standards-Logo

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3

Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.

CCSS.ELA-WRITING.6. W.1.c

Use words, phrases, and clauses to clarify the relationships among claim(s) and reasons.

CCSS.ELA-WRITING.7. W.2.d

Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.

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Vocabulary

CHEMICAL REACTION

A reaction in which the reactants rearrange and bond together differently to form new products.

CLOSED SYSTEM

A system in which nothing enters or leaves.

COMBUSTION

A chemical reaction which includes oxygen and produces heat and light.

DELAY CHARGE

The timed delay prior to the ejection charge which allows the rocket to coast to apogee and produces a stream of smoke to allow for easier tracking of the rocket in the sky.

EJECTION CHARGE

Creates pressure in the rocket’s body tube that causes the recovery system to deploy.

OPEN SYSTEM

A system in which matter and energy can be exchanged with the surrounding environment.

PHYSICAL CHANGE

A change in which the form of a substance changes, but it is not chemically altered.

PRECIPITATE

A solid formed when two solutions are mixed.

PRODUCT

Something created from a chemical reaction.

PROPELLANT

A fuel that creates thrust and causes something to move forward.

REACTANT

A substance that undergoes a change during a chemical reaction.

QUALITATIVE OBSERVATION

Data from the five senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing); subjective.

QUANTITATIVE OBSERVATION

The collection of data-based numerical values; objective.

Learn About Model Rocket Safety!

Not sure how to safely launch a rocket with your group? Head over to our dedicated Safety instructions page for videos, support, and more!
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