Lesson Plan
Melting and Freezing of Water
Course, Subject
Algebra I (Next Generation), Algebra II (Next Generation), Math, Science & Technology, Mathematics (NYS P-12 Next Generation)
Grade Levels
Commencement, 9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
Description
The students will examine the three states of matter and construct heating and cooling curves of water and lauric acid. This lesson includes a Vernier Lab.
Website(s)
Freezing and Melting of Water (Vernier Lab)
Objectives
- Differentiate between the three states of matter
- Identify the segments of heating and cooling curves
- Use a computer to measure temperature
- Analyze graphs of data to determine the freezing and melting temperature of water
- Apply new concepts studied in a new situation
Procedure
- Begin with a discussion of the three states of matter. Include discussions on solids, liquids, gases, heat of fusion, heat of vaporization and conservation of mass.
- Complete the Vernier Lab: Freezing and Melting of Water.
- As an extension, the students can go on to construct a heating and cooling curve of lauric acid (moth balls, 1, 4 - dichlorobenzene). [You can find a copy of this lab adapted from NASA web site below].
- Computers for each lab group are needed along with temperature probeware.
Assessment
- Data collection
- Labeled graphs generated from experiment
- Answers to questions pertaining to Vernier and adapted NASA labs
Materials
- Computer for every student
- Vernier computer interface
- Logger Pro
- Vernier Temperature Probe
- Ring stand
- Utility clamp
- Test tubes
- 400 mL beakers
- Distilled water
- 10 mL graduated cylinders
- Ice
- Salt (NaCl)
- Spoon
- Stopwatch
- Hot plate
Duration
One to two 50-minute class periods
*Duration depends on how familiar students are with using probeware is if the lauric acid procedure is used.
