Acids, Alkalis & pH
Define acids and alkalis in terms of hydrogen ion concentration, describe the pH scale (0–14), and explain how indicators are used to identify and measure acidity or alkalinity
Share and support
Teaching Table
Set out your lesson
“If your child used a piece of universal indicator paper to test lemon juice and baking soda solution, could they predict what colour each would turn and explain what that tells you about each substance?”
Full guide and materials
- Activity. Define acids and alkalis in terms of hydrogen ion concentration, describe the pH scale (0–14), and explain how indicators are used to identify and measure acidity or alkalinity
What to notice. States that acids have pH below 7, alkalis have pH above 7, and neutral is pH 7 • Explains what hydrogen ions (H⁺) have to do with acidity • Names common indicators (litmus, universal indicator) and describes colour changes • Identifies everyday acids (vinegar, lemon juice) and alkalis (bleach, bicarbonate of soda)
Compare teaching approaches
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
If your child used a piece of universal indicator paper to test lemon juice and baking soda solution, could they predict what colour each would turn and explain what that tells you about each substance?
Define acids and alkalis in terms of hydrogen ion concentration, describe the pH scale (0–14), and explain how indicators are used to identify and measure acidity or alkalinity
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
External links for extra practice. They do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
No additional resources are listed for this topic.
The teaching approach appears above.
Check understanding
- States that acids have pH below 7, alkalis have pH above 7, and neutral is pH 7
- Explains what hydrogen ions (H⁺) have to do with acidity
- Names common indicators (litmus, universal indicator) and describes colour changes
- Identifies everyday acids (vinegar, lemon juice) and alkalis (bleach, bicarbonate of soda)
“If your child used a piece of universal indicator paper to test lemon juice and baking soda solution, could they predict what colour each would turn and explain what that tells you about each substance?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Matter & Materials
- Age range
- Ages 12–13
Standards