PBL #2 HIGH SCHOOL S8P1. Students will examine the scientific view of the nature of matter. e. Distinguish between changes in matter as physical (i.e., physical change) or chemical

PROBLEM You work for the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) and you have been presented with the following problem. There has been an increase in the number of illnesses related to rotten food found in grocery stores. Your job is to educate the public about the fact that food rotting is the result of a chemical change and the evidence that indicates that a chemical change (rotting) is occurring in the food.

PROCESS In order to properly educate the public, you will do a study on the rotting of a banana. You will use the data from this study to help you make a convincing, educational poster.

SOLUTION Your are required to create an FDA educational poster to be posted in all grocery stores in the United States. This poster should include an explanation of how rotting is a chemical change and not a physical change. It also should include the evidence that shoppers should look for that indicates a chemical change (rotting) has occurred, and evidence of a chemical change that may not be readily apparent to the shopper. You must also include ways in which the rotting of the food can be stopped or delayed.