Physical & Chemical Changes Science: S'mores Lab Activity / Experiment

S'mores Lab Science Activity: Physical vs Chemical Changes Worksheet

Learn about the differences between physical and chemical changes with this fun smores activity! This is always a hit with my students and I'm sure it will be with your too.

INCLUDED IN THIS RESOURCE:

• Physical vs Chemical Changes Anchor Chart
• S'mores Lab Activity: Students will examine their materials (graham crackers, marshmallows, & chocolate), list physical properties, and determine whether a chemical or physical change has occurred with each step.
• Reference Photos: Step-by-step photos to guide students through step of this activity.
• Answer Key: Responses may vary, but should be based on the information learned from the anchor chart (re: distinguishing between physical and chemical changes).

HOW TO USE THIS RESOURCE:

• Print the S'mores Lab Activity sheet so that each student has one copy.
• Read over the physical vs chemical changes anchor chart together. Discuss the differences between physical and chemical changes (i.e. reactions). Prompt students to come up with their own examples in a class discussion.
• Have ingredients to make s'mores in your classroom: Marshmallows, graham crackers, & chocolate.
• If you're unable to roast marshmallows due to safety concerns in class, then have students study the reference photos. Discuss how the marshmallow looks and feels after roasting.
• NOTE: Question 5 is a bit of a trick question. Digesting food begins in our mouths. While chewing is an act that breaks food into physically smaller pieces (ex. like cutting or tearing), the presence of enzymes, such as amylase, in our saliva start to chemically break food down before it reaches the stomach.