Counterfeit Product Lab
Log in to saveTeams compare a genuine and a counterfeit version of an everyday product, using measurements and material clues to figure out what gives the fake away.
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Every level teaches the same core idea — pick the one that fits your time, budget, and energy today.
Setup
Print or hand-copy the essential prompt for Counterfeit Product Lab, then set out only paper, pencils, and the common or recycled items needed for one test. Use a tabletop representation whenever the original version mentions a room, specialized device, or digital tool; the learning comes from the decisions and evidence, not elaborate scenery.
Activity
- Examine both product samples side by side and predict which measurable differences will reveal the counterfeit.
- Measure weight, dimensions, and material details for both samples and record the data.
- Compare the measurements, find one difference is smaller or less obvious than expected, and design a more precise test to confirm it.
- Present the lab's findings, ranking which clues most reliably expose a counterfeit.
Done when: The group has completed Counterfeit Product Lab when it can present the lab's findings, ranking which clues most reliably expose a counterfeit and point to the observation, measurement, comparison, or trial that supports its conclusion.
Materials
two similar but different versions of a simple product, scale, ruler, magnifying glass
Shown for the Quick Start version — switch tabs above to see what changes.
Steps
- Examine both product samples side by side and predict which measurable differences will reveal the counterfeit.
- Measure weight, dimensions, and material details for both samples and record the data.
- Compare the measurements, find one difference is smaller or less obvious than expected, and design a more precise test to confirm it.
- Present the lab's findings, ranking which clues most reliably expose a counterfeit.