Lesson Plan
Safety Sleuths Escape!
Students will demonstrate understanding of scientific safety rules and procedures by successfully completing a series of escape room challenges.
Scientific safety is paramount for conducting experiments responsibly and preventing accidents. This lesson reinforces critical safety knowledge in an engaging format, ensuring students can confidently and safely participate in practical science activities.
Audience
Year 7 NSW High School Students
Time
50 minutes
Approach
An interactive escape room challenge with 8 stations focusing on different safety aspects.
Materials
Whiteboard or projector, Markers or pens, Safety Sleuths Slide Deck, Station 1: Chemical Conundrum Card Set, Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet Worksheet, Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet, Station 4: First Aid Fiasco Scenario Cards, Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth Diagram, Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle, Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble Cards, Station 8: Safety Scenario Story, Pens/Pencils for students, Timer, and Prizes (optional)
Prep
Preparation Checklist
30 minutes
- Review all generated materials: Safety Sleuths Lesson Plan, Safety Sleuths Slide Deck, Station 1: Chemical Conundrum Card Set, Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet Worksheet, Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet, Station 4: First Aid Fiasco Scenario Cards, Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth Diagram, Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle, Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble Cards, Station 8: Safety Scenario Story.
- Print and cut out Station 1: Chemical Conundrum Card Set (one set per group).
- Print Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet Worksheet (one per group).
- Print Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet (one per group).
- Print and cut out Station 4: First Aid Fiasco Scenario Cards (one set per group).
- Print Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth Diagram (one per group).
- Print Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle (one per group).
- Print and cut out Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble Cards (one set per group).
- Print Station 8: Safety Scenario Story (one per group).
- Set up 8 stations around the classroom, each with its designated material and clear instructions for the challenge.
- Prepare a timer to manage station rotations.
Step 1
Introduction (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Display the title slide: Safety Sleuths Slide Deck (Slide 1).
- Teacher Script: "Welcome, future scientists, to the 'Safety Sleuths Escape'! Today, you'll put your safety knowledge to the ultimate test in an exciting escape room challenge. Your mission: solve all 8 safety puzzles to 'escape' the lab safely. Work together, think critically, and remember - safety first!"
- Briefly explain the concept of an escape room and the goal for today's activity.
- Divide students into small groups (3-4 students per group).
Step 2
Station Briefing & Rules (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Explain the rules of the escape room using Safety Sleuths Slide Deck (Slide 2).
- Each group will start at a different station.
- They will have approximately 5-6 minutes per station.
- When the timer goes off, they rotate to the next station.
- Emphasize teamwork and problem-solving.
- Distribute a recording sheet (if desired, or instruct them to write answers in their notebooks).
Step 3
Escape Room Challenge (35 minutes)
35 minutes
- Start the timer for the first round.
- Facilitate group rotation every 5-6 minutes as planned.
- Circulate among groups, providing hints if necessary, but encouraging independent problem-solving.
- Observe student engagement and understanding of safety concepts.
- Each station will have a specific challenge related to scientific safety. (Refer to individual station materials for details).
- Station 1: Chemical Conundrum: Match hazard symbols to meanings using Station 1: Chemical Conundrum Card Set.
- Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet: Answer questions on safe glassware handling using Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet Worksheet.
- Station 3: Fire Drill Facts: Identify key facts about fire safety using Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet.
- Station 4: First Aid Fiasco: Determine appropriate first aid for lab incidents using Station 4: First Aid Fiasco Scenario Cards.
- Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth: Identify safety features on a lab diagram using Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth Diagram.
- Station 6: Emergency Escape Route: Sequence steps for an emergency evacuation using Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle.
- Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble: Arrange scrambled letters to form safety terms using Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble Cards.
- Station 8: Safety Scenario Story: Write a short story about a lab safety scenario using Station 8: Safety Scenario Story.
Step 4
Debrief and Conclusion (5 minutes)
5 minutes
- Bring students back together as a whole class.
- Use Safety Sleuths Slide Deck (Slide 3) for the debrief.
- Briefly review the answers to each station's challenge, clarifying any misconceptions.
- Teacher Script: "Great job, Safety Sleuths! You successfully navigated our safety escape room. What was the most important safety rule you remembered today? Why is it so important to know these rules?"
- Emphasize the importance of applying safety knowledge in all practical science lessons.
- Acknowledge and congratulate the
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Slide Deck
Safety Sleuths Escape!
Your Mission: Unlock Lab Safety!
Welcome, future scientists! Today, you'll embark on a thrilling escape room adventure to prove your mastery of scientific safety. Are you ready to crack the codes and escape the lab safely?
Welcome students and introduce the exciting escape room theme. Build anticipation for the challenge ahead.
How to Escape the Lab!
The Rules:
* Form Teams: Work in groups of 3-4.
* 8 Stations: Each station has a unique safety challenge.
* Time Limit: You have 5-6 minutes per station.
* Rotate!: When the timer sounds, move to the next station.
* Solve & Learn: Your goal is to complete each challenge safely and accurately.
* Teamwork: Collaborate with your group members!
Good luck, Safety Sleuths!
Clearly explain the escape room rules, how groups will rotate, and the time limit per station. Emphasize teamwork.
Mission Accomplished!
Debrief & Reflection
* Which station was the most challenging? Why?
* What was the most important safety rule you remembered today?
* Why is it so crucial to know and follow lab safety procedures?
Great work, Safety Sleuths! You've proven your safety savvy!
Lead a debrief, reviewing answers and reinforcing key safety concepts. Congratulate students on their efforts.
Activity
Station 1: Chemical Conundrum
## Challenge: Match the Hazard Symbol to its Meaning!
Cut out the following cards and mix them up. Students must match the correct symbol to its meaning.
---
### Card Set A: Hazard Symbols
1. Symbol: Flame over circle
Meaning: Oxidizing
2. Symbol: Skull and crossbones
Meaning: Toxic
3. Symbol: Exploding bomb
Meaning: Explosive
4. Symbol: Flame
Meaning: Flammable
5. Symbol: Test tube pouring liquid on hand and surface
Meaning: Corrosive
6. Symbol: Exclamation mark
Meaning: Irritant / Harmful
7. Symbol: Health hazard (person with starburst on chest)
Meaning: Health Hazard / Carcinogen / Respiratory Sensitizer
8. Symbol: Environment (tree and dead fish)
Meaning: Environmental Hazard
---
### Card Set B: Meanings
* Oxidizing: May cause or intensify fire; oxidizer.
* Toxic: May be fatal or cause serious illness if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin.
* Explosive: Explosive; danger of mass explosion; severe projection hazard.
* Flammable: Flammable aerosols, gases, liquids, or solids.
* Corrosive: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage; corrosive to metals.
* Irritant / Harmful: May cause irritation to skin, eyes, or respiratory system; harmful if swallowed.
* Health Hazard / Carcinogen / Respiratory Sensitizer: May cause allergies, asthma symptoms, or breathing difficulties if inhaled; may cause cancer or genetic defects.
* Environmental Hazard: May cause long-lasting harmful effects to aquatic life and the environment.
Worksheet
Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet
## Challenge: Answer the following questions about handling glassware safely in the lab!
1. Why is it important to check glassware for cracks or chips before using it?
2. What should you do immediately if you break a glass beaker during an experiment?
3. Where should broken glass be disposed of in a science lab?
4. Is it safe to heat a sealed container? Explain why or why not.
5. How should you carry glass tubing or long glass thermometers in the lab?
6. What should you do with hot glassware after heating it?
Reading
Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet
## Challenge: Read the facts and be ready to share what you learned about fire safety!
### Fire Safety in the Lab
Science labs often contain flammable materials, so it's extra important to know what to do if a fire starts. Knowing the facts can help you act quickly and safely.
#### Key Fire Safety Facts:
* Know Your Exits: Always be aware of the nearest fire exits from the lab and the building.
* Fire Extinguishers: Know the location of all fire extinguishers and how to use them (P.A.S.S. - Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) if you are trained and the fire is small. Only adults should attempt to put out fires.
* Fire Blanket: A fire blanket can be used to smother small fires, especially if a person's clothes catch fire. Remember to wrap the person carefully.
* Alarm System: Know where the fire alarm pull stations are located and how to activate them.
* Evacuation Plan: Follow your school's emergency evacuation plan immediately if the fire alarm sounds. Do not run, push, or go back for personal belongings.
* Flammable Materials: Always keep flammable liquids away from heat sources and open flames. Store them in designated safety cabinets.
* Clothing: Tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing when working with open flames.
* Reporting: Report any fire, no matter how small, or any burning smell to your teacher immediately.
Activity
Station 4: First Aid Fiasco
## Challenge: For each scenario, decide the best first aid action to take!
Cut out the following scenario cards. Students should discuss and agree on the best course of action for each.
---
### Scenario Cards
Scenario 1: Chemical Splash in Eye
You accidentally splash a small amount of a chemical into your eye. It stings a little.
What do you do?
Scenario 2: Minor Cut from Glass
While cleaning up, you get a small cut on your finger from a piece of broken glassware. It's bleeding lightly.
What do you do?
Scenario 3: Small Burn
You accidentally touch a hot beaker and get a small, red burn on your hand that doesn't blister.
What do you do?
Scenario 4: Chemical on Skin
You spill a non-corrosive chemical on your arm. It feels a bit irritating.
What do you do?
Scenario 5: Hair Catches Fire (Small Flame)
Your lab partner's long hair accidentally brushes against a Bunsen burner and a small section catches fire.
What do you do?
---
### Answer Key (For Teacher Reference)
Scenario 1: Chemical Splash in Eye
* Immediately flush the eye with water at the eyewash station for at least 15-20 minutes.
* Inform the teacher immediately.
Scenario 2: Minor Cut from Glass
* Wash the wound with soap and water.
* Apply a clean dressing or bandage.
* Inform the teacher immediately.
Scenario 3: Small Burn
* Immediately hold the affected area under cool (not cold) running water for at least 10-15 minutes.
* Do not apply ice, butter, or ointments.
* Inform the teacher.
Scenario 4: Chemical on Skin
* Wash the affected skin thoroughly with plenty of water and soap for at least 15-20 minutes.
* Remove any contaminated clothing.
* Inform the teacher immediately.
Scenario 5: Hair Catches Fire (Small Flame)
* Immediately use a fire blanket to smother the flames on the person's hair/clothing.
* Ensure the person is lying down to prevent flames from spreading upwards.
* Inform the teacher immediately. If a fire blanket is not immediately available, have them stop, drop, and roll.
Activity
Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth
## Challenge: Identify the safety features on this lab diagram!
Imagine this is your science lab. Label each numbered safety feature with its correct name and explain its purpose.
![Placeholder Image of a Science Lab Layout - Label the following: 1. Fire Extinguisher, 2. Eye Wash Station, 3. Emergency Shower, 4. First Aid Kit, 5. Fume Hood, 6. Fire Blanket, 7. Emergency Exit, 8. Broken Glass Disposal Container]
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
---
### Answer Key (For Teacher Reference)
1. Fire Extinguisher: Used to put out small fires.
2. Eye Wash Station: Used to flush chemicals from eyes.
3. Emergency Shower: Used to wash off chemicals from skin/clothing.
4. First Aid Kit: Contains supplies for minor injuries.
5. Fume Hood: Used to safely remove hazardous fumes.
6. Fire Blanket: Used to smother small fires, especially on a person.
7. Emergency Exit: Clearly marked path for evacuation.
8. Broken Glass Disposal Container: Special bin for safe disposal of broken glass.
Activity
Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle
## Challenge: Put the steps for a lab emergency evacuation in the correct order!
Cut out the following strips and have students arrange them in the correct sequence for an emergency evacuation.
---
### Puzzle Strips (Cut These Out)
1. Listen carefully to your teacher's instructions.
2. Turn off any heat sources (Bunsen burners, hot plates) and gas taps.
3. Push in your chairs to keep pathways clear.
4. Proceed calmly and quickly to the nearest designated emergency exit.
5. Move to the designated assembly point outside the building.
6. Wait quietly at the assembly point for further instructions from staff.
---
### Correct Sequence (For Teacher Reference)
1. Listen carefully to your teacher's instructions.
2. Turn off any heat sources (Bunsen burners, hot plates) and gas taps.
3. Push in your chairs to keep pathways clear.
4. Proceed calmly and quickly to the nearest designated emergency exit.
5. Move to the designated assembly point outside the building.
6. Wait quietly at the assembly point for further instructions from staff.
Activity
Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble
## Challenge: Unscramble the letters to reveal important lab safety terms!
Cut out the following scrambled word cards. Students must unscramble the letters to find the correct safety term.
---
### Scramble Cards (Cut These Out)
1. ELGGOSG
2. ERFI EKTBNLA
3. MEFUD HOOD
4. SHWAEYE
5. CALHICEM
6. XICOT
7. SIVRRECOO
8. MAFLMALBNE
---
### Answer Key (For Teacher Reference)
1. GOGGLES
2. FIRE BLANKET
3. FUME HOOD
4. EYEWASH
5. CHEMICAL
6. TOXIC
7. CORROSIVE
8. FLAMMABLE
Journal
Station 8: Safety Scenario Story
## Challenge: Write a short story about a lab safety scenario!
Read the prompt below and write a short story (3-5 paragraphs) about a situation in a science lab where safety rules were either followed or ignored, and what happened as a result.
### Writing Prompt:
Imagine you are a scientist (or a student in a lab). Describe a situation where a potential safety hazard arose. How was the situation handled? Did someone follow the correct safety procedures, or were they ignored? What were the consequences of their actions (positive or negative)? What lesson was learned from this experience?
Remember to include:
* A clear description of the setting and the initial situation.
* The specific safety rule(s) involved.
* The actions taken (or not taken) regarding safety.
* The outcome or consequence.
* A reflection on the importance of lab safety.
Start your story here:
Answer Key
Glassware Gauntlet Answer Key
## Answers to Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet Worksheet
1. Why is it important to check glassware for cracks or chips before using it?
* Reasoning: Cracks or chips can weaken the glass, causing it to break more easily during heating or when handled, potentially leading to injuries or spills.
2. What should you do immediately if you break a glass beaker during an experiment?
* Reasoning: Immediately inform your teacher. Do not touch the broken glass with bare hands. Your teacher will provide instructions for safe cleanup.
3. Where should broken glass be disposed of in a science lab?
* Reasoning: Broken glass should be disposed of in a designated broken glass disposal container (often a specially marked box or bin), never in a regular trash can.
4. Is it safe to heat a sealed container? Explain why or why not.
* Reasoning: No, it is not safe to heat a sealed container. Heating causes gases and liquids inside to expand, which can build up pressure. This pressure can cause the container to explode, sending glass shards and chemicals flying.
5. How should you carry glass tubing or long glass thermometers in the lab?
* Reasoning: Always carry glass tubing or thermometers in a vertical position to minimize the risk of hitting someone or breaking them. Hold them firmly but carefully.
6. What should you do with hot glassware after heating it?
* Reasoning: Allow hot glassware to cool on a heat-resistant mat or wire gauze before handling it. Hot glass looks just like cold glass, so assume it's hot and use heat-protective gloves or tongs if you must move it before it's fully cooled.
Answer Key
Safety Sleuths Answer Key
## Answers for All Escape Room Stations
---
### Station 1: Chemical Conundrum
* Oxidizing: Flame over circle
* Toxic: Skull and crossbones
* Explosive: Exploding bomb
* Flammable: Flame
* Corrosive: Test tube pouring liquid on hand and surface
* Irritant / Harmful: Exclamation mark
* Health Hazard / Carcinogen / Respiratory Sensitizer: Health hazard (person with starburst on chest)
* Environmental Hazard: Environment (tree and dead fish)
---
### Station 2: Glassware Gauntlet
* See Glassware Gauntlet Answer Key for detailed answers.
---
### Station 3: Fire Drill Facts
* Students should be able to identify and discuss key facts from the Station 3: Fire Drill Fact Sheet. Examples include knowing exits, location of extinguishers/fire blankets, alarm system, evacuation plan, and reporting fires.
---
### Station 4: First Aid Fiasco
* See Station 4: First Aid Fiasco Scenario Cards (Teacher Reference section) for detailed answers to each scenario.
---
### Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth
* See Station 5: Lab Layout Labyrinth Diagram (Answer Key section) for correct labels and purposes of safety features.
---
### Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle
* See Station 6: Emergency Escape Route Puzzle (Correct Sequence section) for the proper order of evacuation steps.
---
### Station 7: Safety Symbol Scramble
* ELGGOSG -> GOGGLES
* ERFI EKTBNLA -> FIRE BLANKET
* MEFUD HOOD -> FUME HOOD
* SHWAEYE -> EYEWASH
* CALHICEM -> CHEMICAL
* XICOT -> TOXIC
* SIVRRECOO -> CORROSIVE
* MAFLMALBNE -> FLAMMABLE
---
### Station 8: Safety Scenario Story
* Expected Response: Students should write a coherent story demonstrating an understanding of a lab safety rule and its consequences. Look for clear narrative structure, accurate safety information, and a reflective conclusion.
Script
Safety Sleuths Script
## Guiding the Scientific Safety Escape Room
### I. Introduction (5 minutes)
(Teacher displays Safety Sleuths Slide Deck - Slide 1: "Safety Sleuths Escape!")
"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Welcome, future scientists, to an exciting challenge: the Safety Sleuths Escape! Today, we're not just learning about lab safety; we're going to live it in a fun, interactive way.
In science, safety isn't just a rule; it's the most important foundation for every experiment we do. Understanding and following safety procedures keeps us, our classmates, and our experiments safe. Today, you'll put your safety knowledge to the ultimate test in an escape room challenge right here in our classroom.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to solve 8 different safety puzzles located around the room. Each puzzle will test a different aspect of your lab safety knowledge. Work together, think critically, and remember - safety first is always the key to success!"
---
### II. Station Briefing & Rules (5 minutes)
(Teacher displays Safety Sleuths Slide Deck - Slide 2: "How to Escape the Lab!")
"Alright, Safety Sleuths, let's go over the rules for your escape attempt. I'm going to divide you into small groups of 3 or 4. Each group will start at a different station. There are 8 stations in total, each with a unique challenge.
You will have approximately 5 to 6 minutes at each station. When the timer goes off, you will rotate to the next numbered station. For example, if you are at Station 1, you'll move to Station 2, and so on. If you are at Station 8, you will move to Station 1.
Your goal is to complete each challenge safely and accurately. Don't rush; think through your answers. And remember, this is a team effort! Collaborate with your group members, discuss your ideas, and use your combined knowledge to solve the puzzles.
You can use your science notebooks to record your answers or observations if you wish. I'll be circulating to answer quick questions, but try to solve things as a team first.
Are there any questions about how this will work? No? Fantastic! Let's get into our groups and find your starting stations!"
(Teacher divides students into groups and directs them to their starting stations.)
---
### III. Escape Room Challenge (35 minutes)
(Teacher starts the timer and facilitates rotations. Circulate, observe, and offer gentle hints if groups are stuck, but encourage problem-solving.)
"Time starts now! Good luck, Safety Sleuths!"
(After 5-6 minutes per station, announce rotation.)
"Time's up, Safety Sleuths! Please carefully and calmly rotate to your next station."
(Repeat rotation instructions as needed until all groups have had a chance at most or all stations. Adjust timing as necessary based on student pace.)
---
### IV. Debrief and Conclusion (5 minutes)
(Teacher brings students back together as a whole class. Displays Safety Sleuths Slide Deck - Slide 3: "Mission Accomplished!")
"Fantastic work, everyone! You successfully navigated our safety escape room! Let's quickly review some of the challenges and their solutions. What were some of the key safety rules or pieces of equipment you learned about today?
(Teacher can briefly go over answers for 1-2 key stations or ask groups to share their most challenging station and how they solved it. For Station 8, consider asking groups to share a summary of their safety scenario story, emphasizing the lessons learned. Refer to Safety Sleuths Answer Key as needed.)
"Why do you think it's so important for us to know and follow all these lab safety procedures? How will this help you when we start doing experiments in the lab?"
(Allow a few student responses.)
"Exactly! Your safety, and the safety of everyone in this lab, is our top priority. By mastering these safety rules, you're not just escaping a room; you're building a foundation for exciting, but always safe, scientific exploration.
Great job, Safety Sleuths! You've proven your safety savvy, and I'm confident you'll apply this knowledge in all our future science adventures!"
**(Dismiss students or transition to the next activity.)"