Acids and alkalis – prior learning
What do you know already about acids and alkalis?
Task 1
Decide if the statements in the tables are true or false.
True
Acids and alkalis
1
All acids are dangerous.
2
The human body produces acid.
3
Some acids can burn your skin.
4
Acids can corrode metal.
5
Acids taste sweet.
6
Some alkalis are dangerous.
7
Alkalis generally taste bitter.
8
You cannot find alkalis in nature.
9
Some alkalis can burn your skin.
False
10 Alkalis feel soapy.
Task 2
a) List of all the acids you know.
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b) List of all the alkalis you know.
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c) Explain why rubbing an alkali like bicarbonate of soda onto an acidic bee sting can
ease the pain?
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© www.teachitscience.co.uk 2012
19775
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Acids and alkalis – prior learning
Teaching notes
Use this worksheet to elicit pupils’ prior knowledge and possible misconceptions about
the acid and alkalis topic before teaching.
Answers
Task 1
Acids and alkalis
1
All acids are dangerous.
2
The human body produces acid.
3
Some acids can burn your skin.
4
Acids can corrode metal.
5
Acids taste sweet.
6
Some alkalis are dangerous.
7
Alkalis generally taste bitter.
8
You cannot find alkalis in nature.
9
Some alkalis can burn your skin.
True
False
10 Alkalis feel soapy.
Task 2
a) Students may list hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, nitric acid,
ethanoic acid and everyday acids like lemon juice, vinegar etc.
b) Students may list sodium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, ammonia and
everyday alkalis like lime and oven cleaner
c) Bicarbonate of soda is an alkali and would neutralise the acid, easing the pain
from the bee sting.
© www.teachitscience.co.uk 2012
19775
Page 2 of 2