South Dakota Science 5-PS1-4

Science5th GradePhysical Science

The Standard

Plan and carry out an investigation to determine if the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances. (SEP: 3; DCI: PS1.B; CCC: Cause/Effect)

South Dakota Science Standards (2024) · Matter and Its Interactions

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do: Students plan what to mix and what to compare it with. They record observations before and after mixing. They use those observations to decide whether a new substance may have formed.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student measures ingredients, labels cups, and records changes after mixing. They explain that gas bubbles from vinegar and baking soda are evidence of a new substance. They do not treat salt dissolving in water as proof of one.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think a new substance forms whenever one ingredient disappears from view, as salt does in water. They may also count any bubbles as proof, including air trapped while stirring.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: Salt disappears in water, while vinegar and baking soda bubble. Which mixture gives evidence of a new substance? Name the evidence and a comparison cup you would use.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

Have pairs mix baking soda with vinegar and salt with water in clear cups, then record what they see before and after.
Ask: Why are bubbles from vinegar and baking soda stronger evidence of a new substance than salt disappearing in water?
Give pairs cards showing vinegar fizzing with baking soda, salt dissolving, and dye spreading; have them sort by evidence of a new substance.
Have students read a pancake recipe and connect baking powder mixing with wet batter to the gas bubbles that make pancakes rise.

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