Past projects 2
Brittle Science: Crunching the Chemistry of Peanut Brittle
Funded Aug 8, 2024Thank you so much for your generous contributions, which allowed my classroom to acquire a hot plate and candy thermometers for our peanut brittle lab. These resources have made a tremendous impact on my students' learning experience. The peanut brittle lab was a hands-on experiment that demonstrated chemical changes, heat transfer, and the importance of precision in measuring temperature. Using the hot plate, my students were able to heat sugar solutions to exact temperatures, observing the transition to the candy's hard-crack stage. The candy thermometers gave them a firsthand understanding of how scientific tools are essential for accuracy and success in real-world applications. It was inspiring to watch my students connect abstract concepts from the textbook to the tangible process of creating something as delicious as peanut brittle.
During the lab, the students worked together with focus and enthusiasm, cheering as the sugar mixture hit the perfect temperature. One student exclaimed, "I never thought chemistry could taste so good!" Beyond the academic lessons, this project helped foster teamwork, curiosity, and confidence. Your generosity gave my students not just tools but also an experience they will remember for years. Thank you for believing in the power of education and helping make science exciting and accessible for my students.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Kennedy
This classroom project was brought to life by Governor Jared Polis.Copper's Silver Lining: Stoichiometry With Silver Nitrate
Funded Sep 24, 2023My chemistry students are ecstatic to be using hot plates, along with calculators and markers, for a four-part stoichiometry lab. A hands-on lab provides students with the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts in a real-world setting. Instead of only learning about stoichiometry through lectures and textbooks, students can actively participate in experiments, making the learning process more tangible and enjoyable. Additionally, performing stoichiometry calculations and experiments reinforces the fundamental concepts of a difficult topic. Finally, students who are proficient in using a multitude of different chemistry equipment may have opportunities to engage in independent research projects or at a minimum, help prepare them for future science classes, not only within high school, but in college as well.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Kennedy
This classroom project was brought to life by Gov. Jared Polis & the Colorado Dept. of Education.