Kool Aid Concentration Science Experiment

A small- or whole-group science experiment designed to guide learners in calculating the molarity (concentration) of a solute in a solvent. Learners will use formulas and unit conversions to calculate and observe how the concentration of a solution can be affected by changing either the amount of solute, the solvent, or both. In addition to some meaningful mathematics, this experiment takes learners through the process of accurate measurement, molarity calculation, and data collection. In the end, learners will have created 4 different solutions of varied sugar concentrations to be compared by taste and molarity (in moles per liter).

Please note: This experiment was originally designed for a unit plan in a gifted grade six classroom. As such, it contains some challenging concepts and calculations. However, the experiment is well written and with proper scaffolding, is easily appropriate for any middle school classroom.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

This resource contains:
–> Science Education Best Practices
–> 6-page Fully-Outlined Experiment Student Packet
–> Experiment Answer Key

STORY

During the planning of my grade six chemistry unit plan, I was looking for an idea for a full lab experiment. While we didn’t have access to an actual lab or chemicals, it was challenging to come up with something viable, until we started looking at the molecule sucrose – then it hit me. So I developed this experiment to look specifically at solutions of Kool Aid and sugar.

This experiment introduces my learners to the larger world of molarity including touching on Avogadro’s number, finding the molecular weight of a molecule, and tasting for themselves what “double the concentration” or “supersaturation” actually means.

IMPLEMENTATION

This resource consists mainly of an experiment which, through the teacher’s guidance, can facilitate great conversation about concentration, solutions, calculating molarity and supersaturation. You can begin the experiment by watching a video or reading an article explaining the “mole” and its application in Chemistry. Then, using the molecular weight of specific elements and an example of how to calculate molarity, learners will create a control and three different concentrations of the sugar and Kool Aid solution. Once all the mathematics is complete, learners will collect qualitative data, tasting the solutions to compare them. When finished, a few questions will guide their thinking and could stimulate a group conversation to make larger connections.

POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS

After completing the experiment, you could discuss how scientists have to repeat experiments to make sure the results are valid. Have a discussion about what could be done differently. Or, dive in head first with the entire Chemistry Science Unit Plan.