Engineering with Chemical Processes Interactive Simulation | Physical Science | Grades 6–8

This Interactive Simulation has grades 6–8 Middle School Physical Science students run a hands-on classroom model of Engineering with Chemical Processes.

Driving question: "How can we test, compare, and synthesize the best characteristics of competing chemical heating prototypes to engineer an optimized portable food warmer?" Objective: Evaluate competing chemical heating solutions (varying reagents, catalysts, and vessel insulation), analyze quantitative test data, and combine the best features into a final hybrid design that meets criteria for peak temperature, heating duration, and safety

What's inside: objective and background, a materials list (Digital temperature probes (+/- 0.1 deg…; Anhydrous calcium chloride pellets,…; 250 mL insulated double-wall beakers,…; Assorted thermal insulators: neoprene…), an 8-step protocol, a data table, 4 analysis questions, and teacher notes.

Resource type: Interactive Simulation (.docx). Format: editable Microsoft Word lab handout with approximately 740 words (~5 pages).

Classroom use: a team investigation in a Middle School Physical Science course. Grades 6–8.

Format note: These files are delivered in Microsoft Office formats (Word and/or PowerPoint). If you open a worksheet that includes tables in Apple Pages or another non-Microsoft app, table formatting may not display correctly. For best results, use Microsoft Word or PowerPoint (or upload the file to Google Docs). If you run into any formatting issues, contact us and we can send a PDF version.