Cops and robbers - What do you know about reversible and irreversible changes?

The 'Cops and Robbers' activity is an engaging classroom exercise designed to help students recall and share their knowledge about reversible and irreversible changes. Initially, pupils are given a two-minute window to jot down everything they can remember about the topic on their own. After this, they enter an exciting phase where they have one minute to 'steal' ideas from their peers. During this time, they can look at the answers of up to three other children and add any new information to the 'Stolen knowledge' section of their table. Each plausible statement they gather is worth two points, incentivising them to recall and exchange as much information as possible. The activity is structured to last for 15 minutes, encouraging quick thinking and collaboration among students.

The focus of the exercise is to differentiate between reversible and irreversible materials, prompting students to think about which materials can be reverted to their original form after a change and which cannot. This exercise not only reinforces their understanding of physical and chemical changes but also encourages peer learning and interaction. By reviewing their own knowledge and borrowing insights from others, pupils enhance their grasp of the concept while engaging in a fun, competitive format. The activity is a dynamic way to consolidate learning and assess comprehension in a group setting.