Is It Acidic or Just Basic?
This lesson introduces students to the concept of pH and its impact on health, particularly in relation to dietary choices for individuals with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Students take on the role of scientists to investigate the acidity and basicity of common foods and beverages using both pH paper and Vernier pH probes. They collect and analyze data to determine which foods have low acidity and could be recommended for a GERD-friendly diet. Through hands-on experimentation and problem-solving, students compare analog and digital measurement tools, refine their understanding of acids and bases, and apply their findings to create meal plans with lower acid levels. The lesson concludes with student reflections on the significance of pH in everyday life and career connections to health sciences, medical research, and laboratory technology.
Core Content: chemistry, pH
Grade Levels: middle school
Time Required: one 50-minute class period
ME Career Connection: Students will use microelectronic probes to gather data. They will see that lab technicians, medical personnel, and pharmacists may use this method to gather accurate data and come up with solutions to helping people with this condition. Teacher needs to make explicit microelectronics connection.
Author: Andrea Blocher
