Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will learn about the basic concepts of chemistry through fun activities using Lego.
Materials and Prep
- Lego bricks in various colors and sizes
- A small container of water
- A small container of vinegar
- A small container of baking soda
- A dropper or spoon
- A plate or tray
- A paper towel or cloth
No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Build a Lego tower using different colors and sizes of bricks. Observe how the bricks fit together and discuss the concept of "building blocks" in chemistry.
- Fill two small containers, one with water and the other with vinegar. Use the dropper or spoon to add a few drops of vinegar onto a Lego brick and observe any changes. Repeat the process with water. Discuss the concept of "reactivity" and how different substances can react differently.
- Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on a plate or tray. Use the dropper or spoon to add a few drops of vinegar onto the baking soda and observe the reaction. Discuss the concept of a "chemical reaction" and how it creates new substances.
Second Grade Talking Points
- "Chemistry is the study of matter and how substances can change."
- "Lego bricks can be compared to atoms, which are the building blocks of matter."
- "When we add vinegar to a Lego brick, it can react and cause changes, just like how some substances can react with each other."
- "Water is a substance that does not react with Lego bricks, but vinegar does."
- "Baking soda and vinegar can create a fizzing reaction because they undergo a chemical reaction, forming new substances."