Model Chemical Reactions Using Everyday Substances

Learn about chemical changes by exploring real world reactions using common materials.

Teaching Context:
Designed for Year 8 to Year 10 Chemistry students studying physical and chemical changes.

Basic AI Prompt:
What happens when you mix vinegar and baking soda?

Enhanced AI Prompt:
You are a junior Chemistry student investigating chemical changes. Describe what happens during a reaction between vinegar and baking soda. Include the observable changes, the name of the gas produced, and a simple chemical equation. Use everyday examples where possible.

Spice it Up (Optional Extension):
Ask for a script for a science demonstration or a poster summary.

Lesson Implementation:
Kick off the lesson with a teacher demonstration of the vinegar and baking soda reaction. Use the AI prompt to generate an explanation, then have students repeat the experiment in small groups. They record observations in a scaffolded table. AI can help them write a paragraph summarising the reaction and explaining the difference between physical and chemical changes.

Extension students might explore endothermic vs exothermic reactions or modify the quantities and predict the outcome. Use Padlet to share group results and Google Slides for posters. This is an ideal hands-on task to support theory with practical understanding.

Got ideas on different ways to use this prompt? Share them with the class in the comments below!

Also, if you liked this, you'll love the thousands of subject-specific prompts in our books section!