Physical and Chemical Changes
Investigation Stations
Here are 10 simple investigations to set up around the room. Students rotate through the stations with a partner, read directions, complete activities, and record results.
Station 1: A piece of paper is provided in this station. Tear the paper into many smaller pieces. Is this a chemical or physical change? How do you know? (Throw pieces into trash before leaving station.)
Station 2: A small amount of baking soda and a dropper with vinegar is at this station. Place small drops of vinegar onto the baking soda. Record your observations. Is this a physical or chemical change? What evidence do you see?
Station 3: At this station a small white rock, called limestone, is provided along with a dropper of vinegar. Place a drop of vinegar on the limestone and record your observation. Is this a physical or a chemical change? Why do you think so?
Station 4: Salt, a glass, a pitcher of water, and a spoon are provided. Pour water into the glass. Add a spoonful of salt and stir. Is this a physical or a chemical change? How do you know? (Please pour salt water into marked container after using.)
Station 5: Take the pencil provided and sharpen it with the hand-held sharpener. Is this a physical or a chemical change? Explain.
Station 6: Pool pH test strips and vinegar are provided. Place the end of the strip in the vinegar. Remove and observe. What do you see? Is this a physical or chemical change? What evidence do you see? (Throw used test strip into container provided.)
Station 7: Two iron nails are at this station. One is a silvery color; the other is an orange/red color. Has this piece of iron undergone a physical or a chemical change?
What clue do you see?
Station 8: Take a ball of clay and observe it briefly. Now mold it into the shape of a snake. Have you caused a physical or a chemical change? How do you know? (Please reshape the clay into a ball before leaving the station.)
Station 9: Sitting in a cup are several ice cubes. As these cubes are exposed to the temperature of the classroom, they are changing state. Are they undergoing a chemical or a physical change? Explain.
Station 10: A white antacid tablet is provided, along with a cup and a container of water. Pour water into the cup. Add the tablet, and observe what happens. Is this change chemical or physical? What clues do you see? (Please pour the used water into the container marked “Used Water” before leaving the station.)