How to Make a Distillation Process Chart

Help your K to 12 science students learn the distillation process by making an easy to read chart. Use the chart to introduce distillation as a concept and then as a reference source for homework assignments. Include text and illustrations to assist both language and visual learners. You can use the steps below to create the chart on the computer with presentation software or by hand using standard poster paper.

Instructions

1. Format the chart in landscape orientation when setting up the page. Insert the title, "Distillation Process Chart" at the top of the document.

2. Draw a picture of a distillation flask to the left of the page. Make sure it contains a thermometer, a still head, a condenser, an opening to air, a receiver, water in, water out, boiling chips and a distilling flask.

3. Insert text boxes next to every object mentioned in Step 2. Put the object name within the text box. Extend arrows pointing from each text box to its corresponding object.

4. Add one larger text box to the right of the picture. Entitle this box, "The Distillation Flask." Add a second larger text box underneath the first. Call this one, "Steps in the Distillation Process."

5. Go to the first text box. Explain the significance of each object in the picture.

6. Return to the second text box. Describe what happens during the distillation process. Begin at the step where liquid flows into the flask. Finish by explaining that the distillation process collects some liquids in the receiver and forces some to remain in the flask.