Did you know that jumping spiders sometimes wear water droplets as hats? A seventh grade science lesson introduces the concept of what makes up water: tiny molecules that are attracted to each other. Starting with a chemistry discussion, young scientists perform an experiment using water droplets before viewing a demonstration. 

Concepts

matter, atoms, molecules, states of matter

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Have individuals use different size droppers to see if their results change
• Discuss why the experiments use wax paper and if something else would work instead
• Assign the activity sheet for learners to complete as a class, in small groups, or individually

Classroom Considerations

• The first in a set of five lessons
• The activities would best fit as the first lesson in a chemistry class

Pros

• The resource is a 5E lesson plan design
• Materials are all readily available
• Provides activity sheets and extension ideas

Cons

• Over simplification of the big ideas can lead to confusion later

Common Core

RST.6-8.3 RST.6-8.4 RST.6-8.7 WHST.6-8.1.a WHST.6-8.1.b WHST.6-8.1.c WHST.6-8.1.d WHST.6-8.1.e