JHCM Variables in Chemistry Lab
Chemistry Experiment: Students explore and test experimental variables in this interactive and colorful cabbage chemistry lab. In five lab stations that exhibit simple chemical reactions and large models of atoms and molecules, students discover the building blocks of chemistry and chemical reactions while also creating independent, dependent and control variables in experiments. The culminating experiment is an awe-inspiring set of color-changing chemical reactions using cabbage juice in a range of household solutions with different pH’s.
*Virtual Update- Program can be adapted to a drop-box program with JHCM teacher led zoom instruction.
Labs: 3 labs exploring experimental variables, 2 labs exploring the basics of atoms, molecules and chemical reactions (including a Happy Atom molecule models).
Vocabulary: scientific method, dependent, independent and control variables, atoms, molecules, periodic table of elements, chemical reactions, properties of household chemicals, acids and bases, pH scale
Cross Cutting Concepts: Cause and effect: Cause and effect relationships are routinely identified, tested, and used to explain change.
Scale, Proportion, and Quantity: Natural objects exist from the very small to the immensely large; Standard units are used to measure and describe physical quantities such as weight, time, temperature.
Science Standards This Program Meets
5-PS1-1 Matter and Its Interactions
- Grade: 5th Grade
- Discipline: Physical Science
Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
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5-PS1-3 Matter and Its Interactions
- Grade: 5th Grade
- Discipline: Physical Science
Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties.
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5-PS1-4 Matter and Its Interactions
- Grade: 5th Grade
- Discipline: Physical Science
Conduct an investigation to determine whether the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances.
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About Jackson Hole Children's Museum

This document outlines how our current JHCM programs align to Wyoming State Standards (and NGSS). As TCSD#1 adopts new science curriculum, we can design programs that better fit the standards. Keep in touch, plan ahead, and we can make STEAMy magic happen! All of our lessons include labs that explore the scientific method and an engaging building challenge using recycled materials! *All programs can be adapted to a drop-box program with JHCM teacher led zoom instruction*
View All Programs Visit WebsiteWho | K - 5th Grade |
What | Our two-hour programs begin with interactive, student-centered scientific method lab stations. They end with big, messy, and material heavy building projects where students utilize newly acquired vocabulary and content while also enhancing their engineering literacy skills. |
When | All year long |
Where | JHCM, TCSD Classroom or Virtual |
Why | Our STEAM programs honor self-discovery in learning by providing the “space” for students to explore and express their learning using their own ideas and creative process. |