Inquiry Based Chemistry
Funded Dec 19, 2012The first inquiry based lab my classes did was the Flame Test labs using the materials from this grant. The photos of my classes reflect the joy they experienced with the lab. The students did two different labs with these materials: one in which they determined the wavelength of the different colored salts and an inquiry-based lab from the Journal of Chemical Education series (#67) . In the Inquiry-based lab the students went further to determine which ion causes the color, the cation or the anion. The students especially appreciated the new loops and spectroscopes. They had a blast calibrating them with the fluorescent lamps in the ceilings. The best part is that this is just the beginning! The materials you funded will enable my students to engage is a series of meaningful lab experiences that will enrich my entire chemistry class. When our class studies acids and based, they will have cabbage powder to test a variety of household chemicals to determine which common substance is an acid or a base. We will have the materials to test the rate of chemical reactions or to make lava lamps. The chemistry classes thank you for your generosity. Our chemistry curriculum is better thanks to you.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Stevens