Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to make delicious ice cream while learning about molecules and atoms in chemistry.
Materials and Prep
Materials:
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ice
- Salt
- Gallon-sized resealable plastic bags
- Quart-sized resealable plastic bags
Prep:
- Review the concept of atoms and molecules in chemistry
- Set up the materials for the ice cream making activity
Activities
1. Begin by discussing the basic concepts of atoms and molecules, explaining how they make up the substances we use in cooking and everyday life.
2. Next, guide the student through the process of making ice cream using the provided materials, explaining the chemical reactions that occur during the freezing process.
3. After making the ice cream, discuss the role of molecules and atoms in the transformation of the liquid mixture into a solid dessert.
Eighth Grade Talking Points
- Atoms are the tiny building blocks of matter. They are like the LEGO bricks of the universe. When they come together, they form molecules, which are like the structures we build with those LEGO bricks.
- When we mix the ingredients for ice cream, we are actually combining different molecules to create a new substance. It's like mixing different colors of paint to make a new color!
- When we cool the liquid ice cream mixture in the bags surrounded by ice and salt, we are causing the molecules to slow down and stick together, turning the liquid into a solid. It's like freezing a pond to make ice.