KS3 Chemistry team game for Years 8–9 (Grades 7–8, ages 12–14): concentration calculations in g/L, solutions and mixtures, ion-test evidence, data interpretation and water-treatment decisions.
An unusual signal has appeared in the campus water network. The clean-water reserve will not last forever. Can your class work out what happened — and make a decision the evidence actually supports?
Two teams. Different evidence. One shared decision about the water supply.
WHAT STUDENTS DO
TRACE investigates samples, test results and laboratory evidence. FLOW investigates the network, volumes, possible sources and treatment options.
Across six paired rounds, students compare observations, choose appropriate formulas, calculate concentrations and operating times, interpret uncertainty and exchange verified results.
A code checks the result, not the reasoning. Students must still explain how their evidence supports their decision.
In the final Water Audit, both teams bring their results together. Water can be released only if the quality, source-isolation and timing requirements are all met. A well-supported decision to keep the supply on hold is also a successful safety outcome.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
Seven separate A4 PDFs, plus an A3 campus map:
Concise game rules with a clear six-step round sequence.
12 team packets containing 60 evidence cards.
Reusable role cards, round reference sheets and a 13-formula bank.
Team logs, request and handoff slips, a shared Safe Water record and final audit.
Sealed verification materials, consequences and 36 graded hints.
Teacher guide, worked solutions, timing guidance and a page-by-page printing index.
A4 map tiles and reusable markers.
ROUTES AND CLASSROOM USE
Play the full six-round investigation in around 90 minutes, or split it across two lessons.
A shorter route uses Rounds 3, 4 and 6 and takes approximately 52–55 minutes, depending on reading and discussion time.
One game set is designed for two teams of 3–5 students. Larger classes can run several independent sets.
Prior teaching of the chemistry and calculations is needed. Reference material and an optional formula bank support students during the investigation.
PRINTING AND PREPARATION
Choose your route and print only the pages you need. Prepare the round envelopes and keep future evidence sealed until it is released.
Reusable cards and the map can be laminated or placed in sleeves; students write on separate sheets. You will also need pens, calculators and ordinary classroom stationery.
The 133 A4 pages include cut-out cards, reusable materials, sealed support and teacher reference pages — they are not a 133-page student workbook.
Fictional classroom data only. No chemicals are used. This is not guidance for treating real drinking water.
Created by PuzzleBloomStudio.