Chemistry of Everyday Things

CONTENTS OF CURRICULUM UNIT 11.05.01

  1. Unit Guide
  1. Introduction
  2. Goals & Objectives
  3. Background Research
  4. Teaching Strategies
  5. Classroom Activities
  6. Annotated Bibliography
  7. Student Reading List
  8. End Notes
  9. Appendix 1: Implementing State Standards
  10. Appendix 2: Bubble Formulas
  11. Appendix 3: Marble Lather Picture
  12. Appendix 4: How Soap Removes Dirt
  13. Appendix 5: How to Make Soap

Soap: Clean for the Environment or Just Us?

Arlene Burns-Moguel

Published September 2011

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Guide Entry to 11.05.01

This curriculum unit is designed for grade 8 physical science but can be adapted for a chemistry class. The unit addresses the standards of states of matter beginning with atoms, molecules and solutions. It allows the students to explore the chemistry of soap making, while focusing on physical and chemical properties and changes, using creative and fun interactive activities. Students will investigate pH, surface tension, surfactants, emulsifiers, viscosity, temperature changes, substances, and solutions. The unit then considers the chemicals involved in making environmentally friendly soap versus those in traditional soap. Students will understand ionic and covalent bonding and how to balance chemical equations to reflect the law of conservation of matter. This unit will also encourage the students to become more personally aware of hygienic practices. It promotes a respect for the environment, and allows the students to make their own soap by using a number of variables. This curriculum unit encourages respect, responsibility, relevancy, and ownership of a common household item, in promoting the Georgia eighth-grade science standards.

(Developed for Physical Science, grade 8; recommended for Physical Science, grade 8, and Chemistry, grades 9-10)

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