Lake Oconee Academy ninth grade Physical Science students recently explored acids, bases and pH levels through a hands-on lab that was equal parts scientific, sensory and memorable. Led by Upper School Science Teacher Meaghan Mooney, the lesson transformed abstract chemistry concepts into something students could see, smell and experience firsthand.
Students rotated through a series of tests designed to evaluate how different indicators reveal pH levels. They began with a water test, observing how substances behaved in a neutral solution. From there, students moved to a more unexpected and engaging tool: a natural pH indicator made from red cabbage juice, which Ms. Mooney prepared herself ahead of the lab. Finally, students completed a pH paper test, comparing results across all three methods.
“By using red cabbage juice as a natural indicator, students could actually observe how substances react differently based on their pH,” Ms. Mooney explained. “It helps make the concept visible and shows them that chemistry exists in everyday life and in materials they might not expect.”
As students observed color shifts in response to different liquids, they recorded data, compared results, and analyzed how color changes reflected pH levels. The classroom buzzed with curiosity as students discussed reactions and connected the visual changes to pH values.
For many students, the lab made a memorable impression. Ninth grader Braxton Bragg shared, “I love eating cabbage at home, but it smells terrible. I’m really glad Mrs. Mooney made the cabbage juice at home, and I never knew it could be used in science like this. I thought that was pretty cool.”
Classmate Marley Kerschner agreed that the smell was hard to ignore, but the visuals made it worthwhile. “The cabbage juice smelled awful,” she said, “but it was such a pretty shade of purple. Like the perfect purple color!”
Beyond the laughs and reactions, the lab reinforced essential scientific skills including observation, data collection and analysis. By combining traditional testing methods with creative, real-world applications, students gained a deeper understanding of chemistry and how science shows up in everyday life.
Experiences like this reflect Lake Oconee Academy’s commitment to hands-on learning, curiosity-driven exploration, and helping students see themselves as confident, capable scientists.
