| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | Science |
| What topic | Magnesium in hydrochloric acid |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Year or Grade 6 |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Magnesium in Hydrochloric Acid
Year 6
Science
20 students
This lesson aligns with the UK National Curriculum for Year 6 Science, focusing on chemical reactions and properties of materials.
| Step Number | Step Title | Length (minutes) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction | 5 | Introduction to the lesson objectives and topic. Discuss what students already know about magnesium and acids. |
| 2 | Safety Briefing | 5 | Explain the importance of safety when working with acids. Distribute safety goggles and discuss laboratory safety rules. |
| 3 | Demonstration | 5 | Teacher demonstrates the reaction of magnesium with hydrochloric acid, showing the production of hydrogen gas and bubbles. |
| 4 | Distribution of Materials | 3 | Distribute magnesium strips, beakers, hydrochloric acid (under supervision), and safety goggles to each student. |
| 5 | Hands-on Activity | 8 | Students conduct the experiment in pairs, observing the reaction and filling in their printable cards with observations. |
| 6 | Collecting Observations | 3 | Teacher randomly checks the students’ cards for completion and accuracy. Collect used cards at the end of the activity. |
| 7 | Conclusion and Discussion | 1 | Summarise key learning points. Discuss any questions students have and clarify misconceptions. |
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we are going to explore a fascinating topic: the reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid. By the end of this lesson, you will understand what happens when we mix these two substances, identify signs of chemical reactions, and practice documenting what you observe. But before we dive in, let’s think for a moment: what do you already know about magnesium and acids?"
[Pause for responses from students]
"Great insights! Let's get ready to see this knowledge in action."
"Before we start our experiment, it’s essential to discuss safety. We will be working with hydrochloric acid, which can be hazardous if not handled properly. So, I’m handing out safety goggles for everyone to wear. Please, put them on now."
[Distribute safety goggles]
"Now, let’s go over some important safety rules. Always handle the acid carefully, and never touch it with your bare hands. In case of any spills or accidents, raise your hand, and I will assist you. Remember to keep your work area tidy and don’t lean over the beakers. Are there any questions about safety?"
[Pause for questions]
"Excellent! Let's move on."
"Now, I will demonstrate the reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid. Watch closely as I drop a piece of magnesium strip into the beaker containing hydrochloric acid."
[Perform the demonstration, ensuring all students can see]
"Notice how the magnesium begins to react by producing bubbles. This is hydrogen gas being released, and you may also feel a temperature change in the beaker as the reaction occurs. Can anyone tell me what they observe?"
[Encourage observations and questions]
"Fantastic observations! Now that you have seen the reaction, it’s time for you to conduct your own experiments."
"Let’s get you set up for your experiments. I will now distribute magnesium strips, beakers, and hydrochloric acid to each pair of students. You will need to work together closely during this activity."
[Distribute materials and ensure each pair has everything they need]
"Finally, remember to keep your goggles on and follow the safety rules we discussed. Are you ready?"
[Wait for student's confirmation]
"Alright, it’s time for you to conduct the experiment! In your pairs, carefully drop the magnesium strip into the hydrochloric acid and observe what happens. You each have observation cards to fill out – note down any changes you see, such as bubbles and any temperature changes."
[Circulate the classroom to monitor and assist]
"I’ll give you about eight minutes to complete this activity. Make sure to communicate with each other and share what you are observing."
[After eight minutes]
"Time’s up! Please stop what you’re doing and prepare to share your observations!"
"Now, I will come around to check your observation cards. I’m looking for detail in your descriptions of the reactions you witnessed. Make sure you’ve filled in your observations thoroughly."
[Check each pair’s observation cards, providing feedback and collecting them at the end]
"Thank you for your hard work! If you missed any observations, try to remember and discuss them with your partner."
"To wrap up, let’s summarize what we have learned today. Who can tell me what happened during the reaction we observed?"
[Encourage a few students to share]
"Excellent points! Remember, today we identified bubbles as a sign of chemical reactions and experienced a change in temperature. Does anyone have any questions or points of confusion we need to clarify?"
[Address any final questions]
"Great job today, everyone! For your homework, please write a short paragraph summarising what you learned about the reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid. I’ll be looking for your observations and understanding in your writing."
"Thank you all for your participation, and don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after our experiment. Have a wonderful rest of your day!"
| Question | Answer |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------|
| What happens when magnesium is added to hydrochloric acid? | |
| What gas is produced during the reaction between magnesium and HCl? | |
| What signs indicate a chemical reaction has occurred? | |
| Why is it important to wear safety goggles during the experiment? | |
| How should you respond in case of a spill or accident with hydrochloric acid? | |
| Can anyone describe the temperature change observed during the reaction? | |
| What did you observe after dropping the magnesium strip into the acid? | |
| Why is it important to keep your work area tidy while conducting experiments? | |
| What are some safety rules to remember when working with acids? | |
| How can you document your observations during the experiment? | |