Separating Mixtures
Students will investigate possible ways to separate mixtures in order to create/ design the best way to separate a mixture.
Essential Question
How do we separate mixtures?
Grade(s):
- 5
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
Computers/ chrome books
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
Lesson Progression
Day 1:
- Students will begin research on possible ways to separate mixtures. They will research the following methods:
- Filtration
- Sifting
- Magnetic attraction
- Evaporation
- Chromatography
- Floatation
- Allow students to record research found and discuss with others in the classroom when these situations would best be used.
Day 2:
- Students will work with a partner or other group members to create a “mystery mixture.” They will want the mixture to be made of at least two unique parts. It must be made of items that can be bought and combined. (ex. Salt, pepper, paper clips, slime, glue, water, etc).
*Once the students create their mixtures, the teacher will look over the ideas to make sure they can be separated and created in the classroom.
Day 3:
- The teacher will give each group a mixture that was created from the day before. The students’ jobs are to find the best method of separating mixtures based on the knowledge they gained from research.
- The students will form their hypothesis today.
- They will also need to explain why they believe that method is best, based on scientific evidence.
Day 4:
- Students will test their hypothesis by separating their mixture using the method they believed was the best. They will also use the other options to see if they were correct.
- Students may be creative in their methods. Allow for creativity!
Day 5:
- Students will create a presentation about the mystery mixture they were given, their method for separating, and the results of their project.
Day 6:
- Students will present data to the class.
Teacher Notes
*students methods do not have to be only one method. Allow for experimentation and differentiation.
Color Exploration 2
In this video, watch as children investigate moving molecules using water, food coloring and empty water bottles. Color Exploration 2 is a hands-on science exploration for young children and their teachers, parents or caregivers.
View ResourceStandards
- Physical Science: Matter and Mixtures
- 5.P.2 The student will demonstrate an understanding of the physical properties of matter and mixtures.
- Earth Science: Changes in Landforms and Oceans
- Grade 3: Speak clearly at an understandable pace, adapting speech to a variety of contexts and tasks; use standard English when indicated or appropriate.
- C Communication
Assessments
The teacher will be able to look at several criteria:
- Check to see if the mixtures created by students have the characteristics of a mixture and not a solution.
- Look at projects for separating the mixtures.
- Watch presentations of students and see if they use scientific language and data.