This fall students in fifth and seventh grade will be studying chemistry and why it matters. To begin our unit of study, students performed and observed experiments involving physical and chemical changes. From there, students were brought outside to search for physical and chemical changes in their own backyard. The emphasis on this unit of study is why chemistry matters to us and how it affects our everyday lives. Over the next five weeks, students will be experimenting with solutions, precipitates, and emulsions, all of which we can see in our everyday lives. This week students tested the solubility of solvents, water and rubbing alcohol. They used multiple teaspoons of Kosher salt, Epsom salt, and alum to see how much would dissolve. In the upcoming week, students are researching solutions they use in their everyday lives. Next,  students will perform a series of tests using three different formulas for slime to see how  one slight change can affect a product. Similar to how many manufactures change one ingredient in products such as flour and laundry detergent and then call it their own. Then, students will be experimenting with whipping cream to discover emulsions and what types of food or condiments they take place in. After experimenting with all three of these reactions students will be asked to create a powerpoint, poster, paper, comic strip, etc to show why chemistry matters in our daily lives.