Observing the Change in Mass of an Egg Due to Osmosis

As the cold days of winter came upon us the seventh graders deepened their understanding of the microscopic world. They began a study of several cell processes as well is learned some basic chemistry of life.  After learning to distinguish between organic and inorganic molecules the kids also learned to differentiate between the four types of organic molecules involved in cell processes.  The children explored how things move in and out of cels and within cells in several ways.  First they observed the effect of a change in temperature upon diffusion with a simple food coloring and water experiment.  After that they saw how iodine can enter plastic bags through osmosis.  Finally the kids saw how water enters and leaves and egg depending upon wether the egg is immersed in vinegar or corn syrup.