6

Module in Science
Grade 6

Prepared by:
Christopher G. Lavador
BEED-SPED 2
Lesson 1: Cells

Objectives:
1. Identify the main components of a cell, including the cell membrane, nucleus, and cytoplasm, through a
brief classroom lecture and visual aids.
2. Describe the differences between plant and animal cells in terms of structure and function, using simple
diagrams and interactive activities.
3. Discuss the importance of cells in living organisms, emphasizing their role in processes like growth,
metabolism, and reproduction, in a short group discussion or class debate.
Content:
Cells, as the foundational units of life, represent the cornerstone of biological study, delving into their
intricate structures and the myriad functions of each organelle, a discipline known as Cell Biology. Initially
identified by biologist Robert Hooke, cells exhibit a remarkable diversity in form and function, serving as the
building blocks of all living organisms. Whether existing as single-celled entities or comprising multicellular
organisms, such as humans, cells play indispensable roles in providing structural integrity and facilitating
energy conversion from nutrients.
The complexity of cells is underscored by the diverse functions carried out by their components, akin to the
diverse shapes and sizes of bricks shaping a building's architecture. In the human body alone, cells of varying
shapes and sizes contribute to the intricate fabric of tissues, organs, and systems, exemplifying the versatility
inherent in cellular structures. Despite this diversity, cells universally represent the lowest level of
organizational hierarchy across all life forms, with their abundance varying from organism to organism, evident
in the stark contrast between human and bacterial cell counts.
Within the microcosm of cells lie specialized organelles, each with its unique structure and function,
orchestrating vital life processes essential for the organism's survival. These organelles, akin to specialized tools
within a workshop, collaborate seamlessly to carry out tasks ranging from energy production to genetic
inheritance. Thus, cells serve as not only the architectural foundation of life but also as dynamic entities teeming
with specialized machinery, embodying the complexity and elegance of biological systems.
Reference: [Link]
Lesson 2: Human Body Systems
Objectives:
1. Identify the main organs and functions of three different human body systems through interactive
diagrams and brief explanations.
2. Compare and contrast the structures and functions of two different human body systems using simple
charts or graphic organizers to highlight similarities and differences.
3. Apply knowledge of human body systems to real-life scenarios, such as identifying the organs involved
in breathing during physical exercise or explaining how the circulatory system delivers nutrients to cells,
through short written responses or class discussions.
Content: The human body is composed of several interconnected systems, each with its unique
structures and functions, working together to maintain homeostasis and support [Link] systems
work in harmony to maintain the body’s functions and respond to internal and external stimuli,
ensuring the overall health and well-being of an individual.

1. Skeletal System: The skeletal system provides structural support to the body and protects internal
organs. It consists of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

2. Muscular System: The muscular system works in conjunction with the skeletal system to facilitate
movement and maintain posture. It includes skeletal muscles, smooth muscles, and cardiac muscles.

3. Circulatory System: The circulatory system transports blood, along with nutrients, oxygen,
hormones, and waste products, to and from cells throughout the body. It comprises the heart, blood
vessels, and blood.

4. Digestive System: The digestive system processes food, breaking it down into nutrients that can
be absorbed by the body to provide energy and support various bodily functions. It includes organs
such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas.

5. Nervous System: The nervous system enables communication within the body and controls
various bodily functions. It includes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and sensory organs.

6. Respiratory System: The respiratory system facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon
dioxide between the body and the environment. It includes organs such as the lungs, trachea,
bronchi, and diaphragm.

7. Endocrine System: The endocrine system produces hormones that regulate various physiological
processes and maintain homeostasis within the body. It includes glands such as the pituitary, thyroid,
adrenal, and pancreas.

8. Excretory System: The excretory system eliminates waste products and excess substances from
the body, helping to maintain internal balance and regulate bodily functions. It includes organs such
as the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

9. Immune System: The immune system protects the body from pathogens, foreign substances, and
abnormal cells, helping to prevent and fight infections and diseases. It includes the lymphatic system,
white blood cells, and antibodies.
10. Reproductive System: The reproductive system enables reproduction and the continuation of
the species. It includes organs such as the testes and penis in males and the ovaries and uterus in
females, along with associated structures.
Lesson 3: Genetics and Heredity

Objectives:

1. Understand the fundamental principles of heredity and the role of genes in transferring traits
from parents to offspring, particularly in the context of sexual reproduction.

2. Explore the mechanisms underlying genetic variation, including the impact of DNA
replication errors, gene mutations, gene-environment interactions, and genetic material
combinations, and their significance in the process of evolution.

3. Examine the contributions of Gregor Mendel to the field of genetics, including his
experiments with pea plants, to comprehend how his findings laid the groundwork for modern
genetics and the development of various branches within the field, such as molecular genetics,
population genetics, and evolutionary genetics.

Content:

Heredity, in its simplest form, describes the transfer of traits or characteristics from parents to
offspring via genes. This phenomenon is prominently observed in sexual reproduction, where the
variability of inherited traits is pronounced. Such variability arises from errors in DNA replication,
which in turn, contributes significantly to the process of evolution and serves as the foundation of
heredity. Factors such as gene mutations, gene-environment interactions, and diverse combinations
of genetic material further enhance this variation, although variations in asexual reproduction are less
conspicuous.

Gregor Mendel, renowned as the Father of Genetics, devoted extensive research to understanding
the mechanisms of trait inheritance. His experiments, notably with pea plants, elucidated how traits
are transmitted across generations, with both parents playing an equal role in the process. Through
meticulous studies in plant breeding and hybridization, Mendel demonstrated the principles of
inheritance in living organisms, laying the groundwork for modern genetics.

Mendel’s pioneering work not only shed light on the inheritance of traits but also paved the way for
the development of various branches within genetics. By unraveling the fundamental principles
governing trait transmission, Mendel’s discoveries catalyzed advancements in fields such as
molecular genetics, population genetics, and evolutionary genetics, shaping our understanding of
heredity and evolution.
Know Some Terms
Gene – It is the basic unit of inheritance. It consists of a sequence of DNA, which is the genetic
material. Genes can mutate and can take two or more alternative forms.
Alleles – The alternative forms of genes. They affect the same characteristics or traits in alternate
forms. They are located on the same place of the chromosome.
Chromosomes – These are thread-like structures made up of nucleic acids (DNA) and proteins.
They are mostly found in the nucleus of the cells. They carry the hereditary or genetic information in
the form of genes.
Genotype – It is the complete heritable genetic identity of an organism. It is the set of alleles that are
carried by the organism. It also includes non-expressed alleles.
Phenotype – It is the description of the actual physical characteristics of an organism or the
expressed form of the genotype.
Dominant alleles – When an allele affects the phenotype of an organism, then it is a dominant allele.
Capital letters represent dominant alleles. For example, “T” to express tallness.
Recessive alleles – An allele that affects the genotype in the absence of the dominant allele is called
a recessive allele. Small letters represent recessive alleles. For example – “t” for tallness.
Homozygous – Each organism has two alleles for every gene (Each chromosome has one each). In
homozygous, both the alleles are same. For Example, “TT” is the homozygous expression for tallness
trait.
Heterozygous – If the two alleles are different from each other, then they are heterozygous in nature.
For Example, “Tt” is the heterozygous expression for tallness trait.

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 4: Earth’s Structure

Objectives:
1. Understand the composition of Earth's layers, including the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner
core, and the distinct properties and materials that characterize each layer.
2. Explore the mechanisms driving the dynamic processes within Earth's structure, such as plate
tectonics, mantle convection, and the generation of Earth's magnetic field, and their roles in shaping
the planet's surface and geological features.
3. Examine the significance of Earth's structure in geological phenomena and natural processes,
including seismic activity, volcanic eruptions, mountain formation, and the distribution of resources, to
gain insights into the interconnectedness of Earth's internal processes and its external environment.

Content:
The Earth’s Structure
The earth is made up of three different layers: the crust, the mantle and the core.

Source: Geological Survey Ireland

The crust
This is the outside layer of the earth
and is made of solid rock, mostly basalt
and granite. There are two types of
crust; oceanic and continental. Oceanic
crust is denser and thinner and mainly
composed of basalt. Continental crust
is less dense, thicker, and mainly
composed of granite.
The mantle
The mantle lies below the crust and is
up to 2900 km thick. It consists of hot,
dense, iron and magnesium-rich solid
rock. The crust and the upper part of
the mantle make up the lithosphere,
which is broken into plates, both large and small. To learn more about these plates see the Plate
Tectonics page.
The core
The core is the centre of the earth and is made up of two parts: the liquid outer core and solid inner
core. The outer core is made of nickel, iron and molten rock. Temperatures here can reach up to
50,000 C.

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 5: Electricity and Magnetism

Objectives:
Certainly! Here are three objectives:
1. By the end of the lesson, the students will be able to explain the basic concept of electricity,
including the movement of electrons and its role in powering various devices and appliances.
2. By the end of the lesson, the students will understand the fundamentals of magnetism,
including the properties of magnets, magnetic poles, and how magnets attract or repel each
other.
3. By the end of the lesson, the students will grasp the concept of electromagnetism and its
practical applications, such as in electric motors, generators, and everyday devices, and
recognize the interconnected relationship between electricity and magnetism.

Content:
What is Electricity?
Imagine a flow of tiny particles called electrons racing through a wire like cars on a highway. That’s
electricity! Electricity is a form of energy created by the movement of these tiny particles, called
electrons. It powers our lights, computers, and even the appliances in our homes. When we plug
something into an outlet, we’re allowing electricity to flow through wires and do work, like lighting up a
bulb or powering a fan.
What is Magnetism?
Now, think of a magnet attracting metal objects like paper clips. That’s magnetism! Magnetism is a
force that pulls certain materials, like iron or steel, towards magnets. Magnets have two ends called
poles – a north pole and a south pole. Just like how opposite sides of a magnet attract each other,
opposite poles attract, and similar poles repel. This means that if you try to push the north ends of two
magnets together, they’ll push away from each other!
How are Electricity and Magnetism Connected?
Here’s where it gets really cool! Did you know that electricity and magnetism are like best friends?
When electricity flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field around it, just like how a magnet
attracts metal objects. This connection between electricity and magnetism is called electromagnetism.
It’s why we can use electricity to make magnets in devices like electric motors and why moving
magnets can make electricity in generators. So, remember, electricity and magnetism are like two
peas in a pod – always working together to power our world!

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 6: Photosynthesis and Respiration

Objectives :
• Construct a model of the chemical compounds making up the reactants and products of
photosynthesis and cellular respiration (day 1)
• Explain how oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between living organisms and the
environment
Content:
Plants utilize sunlight to carry out photosynthesis, a vital process occurring within the chloroplasts
of their cells. During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide from the air and water absorbed by the roots
combine to form glucose and oxygen. This transformation takes place through a series of chemical
reactions facilitated by the chlorophyll pigment. Notably, plants draw in carbon dioxide through
microscopic openings called stomata, regulated by specialized guard cells within their leaves.
Conversely, cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria of all living organisms, including plants
and animals. In this process, sugars are broken down into carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the
form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). While photosynthesis primarily occurs in plants and produces
glucose and oxygen, cellular respiration is ubiquitous across organisms and results in the breakdown
of sugars to release energy necessary for cellular functions.

Chemical equations succinctly represent the transformations occurring in both photosynthesis and
cellular respiration. These equations delineate the conversion of reactants into products, indicating
the direction of the reaction with an arrow. Furthermore, chemical equations must be balanced,
ensuring that the number of atoms in the reactants equals that of the products. This balance signifies
the conservation of mass and highlights the rearrangement of atoms during chemical reactions,
resulting in the formation of new substances with distinct properties.

Reference: Just Breathe: An Introduction to Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

Objectives:
1. Understand the nature of sound as vibrations that travel through the air and are perceived by the
ear as auditory sensations, originating from various sources such as vibrating objects or vocal cords.
2. Explore the transmission of sound waves, including how they propagate through the air until
reaching our ears and how our ears receive and interpret these waves as sound signals that our
brains understand.
3. Recognize the significance of sound in everyday life, including its role in communication, learning,
and enjoyment, and appreciate the importance of sound waves in helping us understand and interact
with the world around us.

Content:

What is Sound?
Sound is what we hear when something vibrates. It could be the strumming of a guitar string, the bark
of a dog, or the hum of a bee. When things vibrate, they send waves through the air, and those waves
bump into our ears, letting us hear the sound.
How Does Sound Travel?
When something makes a noise, like clapping hands, it sends out waves of energy called sound
waves. These waves travel through the air until they reach our ears. Our ears catch these waves and
turn them into signals that our brains understand, so we know what sound we’re hearing.
Why is Sound Important?
Sound is everywhere, and it helps us communicate, learn, and enjoy life! We use sound to talk to
each other, listen to music, and even understand what’s happening around us. Without sound, the
world would be a much quieter and less exciting place. So, next time you hear something, remember
that it’s the vibrations in the air making their way to your ears, helping you experience the world
around you!
Lesson 8: light

Objectives:
1. Understand the behavior and properties of light as a form of electromagnetic radiation.
2. Explore the dual nature of light as both waves and particles, and its implications in scientific inquiry.
3. Investigate the diverse range of colors and types of light across the electromagnetic spectrum, and
its practical applications in various fields.

Content:

Light is a fascinating phenomenon that behaves in intriguing ways. It can travel in straight lines, like
the beam of a laser or sunlight streaming through a window, yet it also bends and reflects under
different circumstances. In rare cases, light can even pass through objects and have harmful effects.
Despite its ubiquity, the nature of light has puzzled people throughout history, leading to questions
about what it is made of and how it can be measured.
At its core, light is a form of electromagnetic radiation. This means that it consists of waves that
propagate through both the electromagnetic field and the vacuum of space at an astonishing speed of
approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. These waves can vary in their wavelengths and
frequencies, giving rise to the diverse range of colors and types of light found across the
electromagnetic spectrum. Alternatively, light can also be conceptualized as being composed of
photons, which are the smallest units of light. These photons travel through space at the same
incredible speed and can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior, depending on the context.
Understanding light involves grappling with its dual nature as both waves and particles, a concept
that has intrigued physicists and quantum physicists alike. Depending on the specific experiment or
problem being explored, light can be studied and described either as a wave or as a particle. This
duality adds complexity to our understanding of light, leading to the recognition of it as a probabilistic
function that encompasses characteristics of both waves and particles. Ultimately, the study of light
continues to captivate scientists as they uncover its mysteries and unlock its potential applications in
various fields.

Reference : [Link]
Lesson 9: Environment

Objectives :
1. Understand the interdependence of biotic and abiotic factors in sustaining ecosystems.
2. Explore the diverse components of the biotic and abiotic environments and their roles in supporting
life.
3. Investigate the impact of environmental changes on both biotic and abiotic factors, and their
implications for ecosystem health and resilience.

Content:

All living organisms rely on a combination of biotic and abiotic factors to thrive. Together, these
factors form our ecosystem, where plants, animals, and various organisms interact with each other
within a set of non-living conditions. The ecosystem encompasses both living (biotic) and non-living
(abiotic) components, which are crucial for the survival and well-being of all organisms.

Within our environment, we find various components contributing to the ecosystem. Biotic factors
consist of living organisms such as plants, animals, and bacteria, along with recently-living matter like
food. On the other hand, abiotic factors comprise non-living elements such as weather conditions,
soil, water, sunlight, and atmosphere. Organisms must adapt to these abiotic factors to thrive, as they
play a vital role in determining their survival.

Both biotic and abiotic factors are indispensable for sustaining life. Extreme weather conditions, for
instance, can pose threats to many plants and animals, emphasizing the importance of understanding
and adapting to environmental factors. Humans, too, rely on both biotic and abiotic components for
survival, from seeking shelter from harsh weather to relying on plants and animals for sustenance.
Thus, a harmonious balance between biotic and abiotic elements is essential for the health and
longevity of ecosystems and their inhabitants.

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 10: Weather and Climate

Objectives:
1. Analyze and interpret weather data to identify patterns and trends in temperature, precipitation, and
atmospheric conditions.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between the Earth’s shape, solar radiation, and
weather patterns, including the influence of axial tilt and seasonal variations.
3. Develop observational skills to recognize and describe various weather phenomena, such as cloud
cover, wind direction, and changes in atmospheric pressure, using both firsthand observations and
available meteorological resources.

Content:
Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions present at any given moment. It encompasses
various factors such as temperature, precipitation, cloud cover, and air pressure. These elements
combine to create the ever-changing conditions we experience daily. For instance, weather forecasts
typically inform us about upcoming temperature changes, the likelihood of rain or snow, and whether
the sky will be cloudy or sunny.
The shape of the Earth significantly influences weather patterns. Since the Earth is spherical,
different regions receive sunlight at varying angles and intensities throughout the day and year. This
variation in solar radiation leads to temperature variations across the globe, which, coupled with the
Earth’s axial tilt, results in the formation of seasons. As temperatures fluctuate, the atmosphere
undergoes dynamic movements, giving rise to wind, cloud formation, storms, and precipitation. The
interaction between warm and cold air masses generates weather phenomena that shape our daily
experiences.
Observing and understanding weather phenomena does not always require specialized equipment.
While some aspects like air pressure may necessitate measurement tools like barometers, many
components of weather can be observed firsthand. Cloud cover, temperature, and wind can often be
discerned through simple observation. Additionally, advancements in meteorological technology,
including weather stations equipped with specialized instruments, aid scientists in monitoring and
forecasting weather patterns more accurately.

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 11: States of Matter

Objectives:

Content:
Matter is anything that takes up space and possesses mass. It includes all substances found in
our surroundings, such as solids, liquids, gases, and plasma. Essentially, matter encompasses
everything we can detect either through our senses or scientific tools.

1. Solid -Solids are substances that have a definite shape and volume. The particles in a solid are
tightly packed together and vibrate in fixed positions.
- Properties:
- Definite shape: Solids maintain their shape regardless of the container they are placed in.
- Definite volume: Solids have a fixed volume that does not change.
 - Incompressibility: Solids are difficult to compress because their particles are already tightly
packed.
- Resistance to flow: Solids do not flow and maintain their structure unless acted upon by an
external force.
2. Liquid -Liquids are substances that have a definite volume but take the shape of their container.
The particles in a liquid are loosely packed and can move past each other.
- Properties:
- Indefinite shape: Liquids take the shape of their container.
- Definite volume: Like solids, liquids have a fixed volume.
- Fluidity: Liquids can flow and take the shape of their container due to the ability of their particles
to move past one another.
- Incompressibility: While liquids are generally difficult to compress, they are more compressible
than solids.
3. Gas -Gases are substances that neither have a definite shape nor a definite volume. The particles
in a gas are far apart and move freely, filling the entire space available to them.
- Properties:
- Indefinite shape and volume: Gases take the shape and volume of their container, expanding to
fill the available space.
- Compressibility: Gases are highly compressible because their particles are widely spaced.
- Fluidity: Like liquids, gases can flow and move freely.
- Low density: Gases have low densities compared to solids and liquids due to the large spaces
between particles.

These are the three primary states of matter, each characterized by distinct properties based on the
arrangement and movement of their particles.

Reference: [Link]
Lesson 12: Simple Machine
Objectives:
1. Understand the fundamental principles of simple machines and their role in altering the direction or
magnitude of a force to make tasks easier.
2. Identify and describe the characteristics and functions of each of the six types of simple machines,
including inclined planes, wheels and axles, pulleys, levers, screws, and wedges.
3. Apply knowledge of simple machines to real-world scenarios by recognizing examples of their
usage in everyday life and understanding how they enhance efficiency and effectiveness in various
tasks and activities.
Content:
A simple machine is a mechanical device that alters the direction or magnitude of a force. It achieves
this by employing leverage or mechanical advantage to multiply force, often with few or no moving
parts. Six types of simple machines exist, each serving specific purposes to make tasks easier and
more efficient.

Inclined Plane: An inclined plane is a sloping surface that facilitates the raising of heavy objects to
greater heights by reducing the force required to lift them. Common examples include ramps,
conveyor belts, and switchback roads.

Wheel and Axle: This simple machine consists of a wheel rotating on an axle, reducing friction to
facilitate the movement of objects across distances. The invention of the wheel revolutionized
transportation, enabling the efficient movement of heavy loads over land.

Pulley: A pulley consists of a wheel with a cord wrapped around it, allowing for the change in
direction of a force. It is widely used in lifting and moving tasks, such as hoisting flags on flagpoles or
operating elevators.

Lever: Levers are tools used for prying or lifting objects, featuring an arm that pivots around a
fulcrum. Examples include hammers for prying nails loose and see-saws for recreational activities.

Screw: A screw is essentially an inclined plane wrapped around a shaft, used for holding things
together or lifting objects. Its threading provides a secure grip, making it ideal for various applications
like holding materials or lifting heavy loads with a jack.

Wedge: Wedges are simple machines used to split substances by concentrating force at a point, with
common examples being nails. As the wedge-shaped point pierces through objects, it forces them
apart, facilitating tasks like woodworking or construction.
Reference: [Link]
Lesson 13: The Solar System

Objectives:
1. Understand the components and structure of the solar system.
2. Identify the characteristics and properties of various celestial bodies within the solar system.
3. Recognize the importance of the sun as the central star in our solar system.

Content:
The solar system is an awe-inspiring ensemble of planets, moons, asteroids, and comets, all
governed by the gravitational pull of the sun. It is made up of eight planets, including Earth, each with
its distinct features and orbit. The first objective of this module is to understand the components and
structure of the solar system. By learning about the sun, planets, and other celestial bodies, students
will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these entities interact and coexist within our vast
cosmic neighborhood.
Each celestial body in the solar system possesses unique characteristics and properties that
differentiate them from one another. From the blazing hot surface of Venus to the frigid temperatures
on the distant Pluto, every planet has its own atmosphere, composition, and geological features.
Moons, such as Earth’s moon or Jupiter’s Ganymede, showcase a diverse range of surfaces and
even the possibility of harboring extraterrestrial life. The second objective of this module is to enable
students to identify and appreciate the distinct traits of different celestial bodies throughout the solar
system.
The sun, a captivating and magnificent star, holds great significance in our solar system. It is not only
the largest celestial body but also acts as the central gravitational force that keeps all the planets in
orbit. The sun’s immense energy powers various natural phenomena in our solar system, including
the weather on Earth and the presence of volcanic activity on certain moons and planets.
Understanding the sun’s role and its properties helps students appreciate its importance and
influence on life as we know it. Thus, the third objective of this module is to recognize the vital role
played by the sun within the solar system and how it affects our daily lives on Earth.
Reference:
Lesson 14: Chemical Reaction

Objectives:
1. Introduce the concept of chemical reactions and their role in transforming substances.
2. Identify different types of chemical reactions and their characteristic features.
3. Explore real-life applications of chemical reactions and their importance in our daily lives.

Content :
Chemical reactions are fascinating processes that occur when substances combine, break apart, or
rearrange their atoms to form new substances. These reactions are responsible for the countless
transformations we observe in everyday life, from the rusting of metal to the combustion of fuel. The
first objective of this module is to introduce students to the concept of chemical reactions and help
them understand the fundamental idea that chemical reactions involve the breaking and forming of
bonds between atoms.
There are several types of chemical reactions, each with its unique characteristics. One common type
is a synthesis reaction, where two or more substances combine to form a new compound. On the
other hand, a decomposition reaction occurs when a compound breaks down into simpler
substances. Additionally, students will learn about combustion reactions, where a fuel combines with
oxygen to release energy in the form of heat and light. By exploring these types of reactions and
understanding their distinguishing features, students will develop a deeper understanding of how
chemical reactions occur and how they differ from one another.
Chemical reactions play a vital role in our daily lives and have numerous applications. For example,
the process of digestion in our bodies involves a series of chemical reactions that break down food
molecules to release energy for our cells. Additionally, chemical reactions are utilized in cooking, such
as when baking a cake, where ingredients react to form a delicious treat. Students will also learn
about the importance of chemical reactions in industries, such as the production of fertilizers, plastics,
and medicines. Understanding the real-life applications of chemical reactions is essential for students
to recognize the impact they have on our world and the importance of chemistry in various fields.
Lesson 15: Chemical Reactions

Objectives:
1. Understand the concept of chemical reactions and identify examples in everyday life.
2. Recognize the difference between reactants and products in a chemical reaction.
3. Demonstrate basic knowledge of the conservation of mass in chemical reactions.

Content:
Chemical reactions are all around us, shaping the world we live in. From the combustion of fuels in
engines to the digestion of food in our bodies, chemical reactions are fundamental processes that
occur every day. At its core, a chemical reaction involves the transformation of substances into new
substances with different properties. These transformations are often accompanied by changes in
temperature, color, or the formation of gas bubbles.

In a chemical reaction, substances called reactants interact with each other to form new substances
called products. For example, when iron (Fe) rusts, it reacts with oxygen (O2) in the air to form iron
oxide (Fe2O3), commonly known as rust. Here, iron and oxygen are the reactants, while iron oxide is
the product. It’s important to note that in a chemical reaction, the total mass of the reactants is always
equal to the total mass of the products. This principle is known as the law of conservation of mass.

Let’s consider a simple example to illustrate the conservation of mass in a chemical reaction. When
baking a cake, we mix flour, sugar, eggs, and other ingredients together. As the cake bakes in the
oven, chemical reactions occur between these ingredients, resulting in the formation of the cake.
Despite the changes in appearance and texture, the total mass of the ingredients before baking is
equal to the total mass of the cake after baking. This demonstrates the conservation of mass in
action, showing that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction, only rearranged.