A self-paced, clickable simulation for identifying acids, bases, and neutral solutions.
This digital simulation recreates the core instructional function of the original Alien Juice Bar activity in a modern, interactive Google Slides format. Students investigate acids and bases by making choices, observing outcomes, and applying pH concepts to determine whether mixtures are safe or harmful.
Students interact with a nonlinear, clickable environment in which:
different liquids are combined and tested
pH changes are observed and interpreted
incorrect decisions produce visible consequences
correct decisions allow progression through the activity
The structure mirrors a cause-and-effect model rather than a worksheet. Students must use their understanding of acid–base properties and pH to make decisions, rather than simply identifying definitions.
This lesson is designed to support:
conceptual understanding of acids and bases
interpretation of pH-related outcomes
application of chemistry concepts in a simulated environment
engagement through interactive decision-making
It functions well as:
an introductory exploration of acids and bases
a practice activity after direct instruction
a conceptual reinforcement tool within a chemistry unit
The digital format allows each student to work independently through the simulation with minimal teacher setup. The activity preserves the instructional value of the original Alien Juice Bar while adapting it for current classroom technology.
This resource is free because it recreates a beloved classroom activity that was originally available at no cost.
Grade & Course Recommendation:
Middle School:Grades 7–8 Physical Science or Chemistry, introduction to acids, bases, and pH.
High School:Grade 9 Chemistry or Biology, reinforcement for biochemistry and solutions.
Cross-Curricular Connections:
Math Integration: Measurement and interpretation of pH scales and numerical ranges.
ELA Integration: Students explain claim-evidence reasoning for acidity and neutrality.
Technology Integration: Strengthens digital literacy through interactive, clickable exploration.
MS-PS1-2: Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred. (connection: testing pH and identifying substances as acidic, basic, or neutral based on observable properties)
HS-PS1-3: Plan and conduct an investigation to gather evidence to compare the structure of substances at the bulk scale to infer the strength of electrical forces between particles. (connection: higher-level application of acidity and basicity)
Science & Engineering Practices: Planning and carrying out investigations; Analyzing and interpreting data.
Crosscutting Concepts: Structure and properties of matter; Cause and effect; Patterns.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3/RST.9-10.3: Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks. (connection: following steps to test pH and classify solutions as acidic, basic, or neutral)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.4/RST.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases (e.g., acidic, basic, neutral, indicator).
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.7/RST.9-10.7: Integrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words with visual data (e.g., color changes, pH charts, or solution diagrams).
A self-paced, clickable simulation for identifying acids, bases, and neutral solutions.
This digital simulation recreates the core instructional function of the original Alien Juice Bar activity in a modern, interactive Google Slides format. Students investigate acids and bases by making choices, observing outcomes, and applying pH concepts to determine whether mixtures are safe or harmful.
Students interact with a nonlinear, clickable environment in which:
different liquids are combined and tested
pH changes are observed and interpreted
incorrect decisions produce visible consequences
correct decisions allow progression through the activity
The structure mirrors a cause-and-effect model rather than a worksheet. Students must use their understanding of acid–base properties and pH to make decisions, rather than simply identifying definitions.
This lesson is designed to support:
conceptual understanding of acids and bases
interpretation of pH-related outcomes
application of chemistry concepts in a simulated environment
engagement through interactive decision-making
It functions well as:
an introductory exploration of acids and bases
a practice activity after direct instruction
a conceptual reinforcement tool within a chemistry unit
The digital format allows each student to work independently through the simulation with minimal teacher setup. The activity preserves the instructional value of the original Alien Juice Bar while adapting it for current classroom technology.
This resource is free because it recreates a beloved classroom activity that was originally available at no cost.
Grade & Course Recommendation:
Middle School:Grades 7–8 Physical Science or Chemistry, introduction to acids, bases, and pH.
High School:Grade 9 Chemistry or Biology, reinforcement for biochemistry and solutions.
Cross-Curricular Connections:
Math Integration: Measurement and interpretation of pH scales and numerical ranges.
ELA Integration: Students explain claim-evidence reasoning for acidity and neutrality.
Technology Integration: Strengthens digital literacy through interactive, clickable exploration.
MS-PS1-2: Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred. (connection: testing pH and identifying substances as acidic, basic, or neutral based on observable properties)
HS-PS1-3: Plan and conduct an investigation to gather evidence to compare the structure of substances at the bulk scale to infer the strength of electrical forces between particles. (connection: higher-level application of acidity and basicity)
Science & Engineering Practices: Planning and carrying out investigations; Analyzing and interpreting data.
Crosscutting Concepts: Structure and properties of matter; Cause and effect; Patterns.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3/RST.9-10.3: Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks. (connection: following steps to test pH and classify solutions as acidic, basic, or neutral)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.4/RST.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases (e.g., acidic, basic, neutral, indicator).
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.7/RST.9-10.7: Integrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words with visual data (e.g., color changes, pH charts, or solution diagrams).
