A Sweet Approach to Hands-On Chemistry at High Road School of Massachusetts
Watching Chemistry Come to Life
A handful of Skittles, some water and a paper plate helped turn a recent chemistry lesson at High Road School of Massachusetts into an experiment students could see unfold in front of them.
The “Candy Coating Chemistry” activity followed a lesson on diffusion, solubility and concentration. Students first developed hypotheses about what would happen when water was added to Skittles arranged in colorful patterns on paper plates. They then watched as the candy coatings dissolved and the colors spread through the water.
Building Engagement Through Hands-On Learning
The lesson was designed around High-Leverage Practice 18, which focuses on increasing student engagement and participation, an area of emphasis at High Road School of Massachusetts this year.
Before starting the experiment, students and staff reviewed the school’s CASE matrix and expectations for communicating considerately, listening to classmates and working safely. Students shared their hypotheses, discussed what they observed and worked with their peers to explain how particles move in a solution.
Exploring Ideas Together
“When students have something in front of them that they can see and explore, it gives them another way to connect with what they’re learning,” said Sandra Barboza, education director at High Road School of Massachusetts. “We also wanted them talking to each other, hearing different ideas and figuring out an answer together.”
Staff reinforced students’ efforts with specific positive feedback throughout the lesson. Students stayed engaged and reported noticing a difference themselves. One said they felt “happier to work with classmates,” while another said they “got more work done than usual.”
Strengthening Skills Beyond Chemistry
The experiment gave students a practical way to explore chemistry while working on skills they use across the school day. It also offered a simple example of the school’s broader focus on creating classroom experiences that encourage students to participate, contribute and learn alongside their peers.
About High Road School of Massachusetts
High Road School of Massachusetts serves students with academic, behavioral and emotional needs through individualized instruction and support. Smaller class sizes and a structured learning environment allow educators to help students build the skills they need to make progress in school and prepare for greater independence beyond the classroom.
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