Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create and understand the basics of potions using common household materials.

Materials and Prep

• Glass or plastic containers
• Water
• Food coloring
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring utensil
• Protective goggles (optional)
• Apron or old clothes

Prior to the lesson, make sure to gather all the materials and set up a safe workspace.

Activities

1. Create a basic color-changing potion:

   1. Fill a glass container halfway with water.
   2. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water and stir.
   3. Slowly add a small amount of baking soda to the mixture and observe the color change.

2. Create a fizzy potion:

   1. Fill a glass container halfway with vinegar.
   2. Add a few drops of food coloring to the vinegar and stir.
   3. Slowly add a small amount of baking soda to the mixture and observe the fizzing reaction.

Fourth Grade Talking Points

• "Chemistry is the branch of science that deals with the properties, composition, and behavior of substances."
• "Potions are mixtures of different substances that can create interesting reactions."
• "Water is a common ingredient in many potions because it can dissolve other substances and act as a base for mixing."
• "Food coloring is used to add color to potions and make them visually appealing."
• "Baking soda is a powdery substance that can react with other ingredients to create fizzing or color-changing reactions."
• "Vinegar is a liquid that can react with baking soda to create a fizzy reaction."
• "When we mix baking soda and vinegar, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide gas, which causes the fizzing."