Diffusion
A Fifth-Grade Science Module
Description
How do odors travel through air? Can we use the behavior of scent to model
other movement patterns? Students will explore behavior of various substances
through a variety of media to develop a working model of diffusion. Students
will compare their real-time results to a technology-based model to check
for correlation of data.
Requirements
Software:
Materials:
Warm Up Activity: Scent diffusion
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plate
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video camera
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pure vanilla
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blindfolds
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blank grid paper for flip book
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Use 1/2" grid paper, cut into 4" by 4" squares
Activity 1: Kid Diffusion
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card stock (large index cards - 2 per student)
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markers
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scissors
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compasses
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protractors
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paper clips
Activity 2: Diffusion of color through water to optimize resolution and
time steps
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12 aluminum pans (9" by 12")
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food coloring
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3", 2", 1" square grid paper (8.5" by 11")
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clear plastic sleeve for grid paper
Activity 3: Diffusion of color through water (continued)
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Three different temperatures of water for each group
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Barriers to place in the water (suggestion: modeling clay)
Objectives
Students will:
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demonstrate understanding of diffusion through various modeling activities
and ongoing classroom discussion
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complete a project summarizing diffusion and present their findings to
the class via a poster.
Introduction
How does pollution spread? Does pollution spread differently in water than
in air? Can we predict the way pollution will move through a particular
medium? This multisensory unit will introduce students to diffusion in
water and air, modeling diffusion and the impact of variables on diffusion,
and will help them to understand the different phases of matter and how
these phases behave in the context of modeling diffusion.
Activities and Procedures
References and Resources
Websites:
Books:
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Students and Research: Practical Strategies for Science Classrooms and
Competition by Julia Cothron
Acknowledgements:
Standards Addressed
Assessment Techniques
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Assessment is a ongoing process and therefore should be happening at all
stages of this project. Assessment Strategies and Rubrics are included
within each activity.
