Blogs

ChemEd X contributors offer their ideas and opinions on a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to chemical education.

Blogs at ChemEd X reflect the opinions of the contributors and are open to comments. Only selected contributors blog at ChemEd X. If you would like to blog regularly at ChemEd X, please use our Contribution form to request an invitation to do so from one of our editors.

by Shifra Yonis
Sat, 11/23/2024 - 09:15

Inquiry and phenomena-based curriculum are buzzwords in the education world, especially in connection with NGSS. What does this actually mean and how can it be implemented in the chemistry classroom is explored in this article along with an introduction to some curriculum resources.

Recent activity: 1 week 4 days ago
by Sarah English
Thu, 11/21/2024 - 10:37

Over the first weekend of November, more than 700 science educators from across New York State gathered in Syracuse for the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS) conference. The theme was "Launching into NYSSLS Assessments: Empowering Sensemaking Opportunities for Liftoff," offering sessions focused on three-dimensional learning. Ashley Green and Sarah English reflect on their experience and how they plan to bring what they learned to the ChemEd25 conference in Golden, Colorado, in July 2025.

Recent activity: 1 week 6 days ago
by Dean Campbell
Tue, 11/05/2024 - 19:26

Recent space-related phenomena like aurora and a comet were viewed by large numbers of people. These phenomena can be connected to concepts described in chemistry courses, such as electronic structures and light emission associated with species such as excited oxygen atoms.

Recent activity: 4 weeks 1 day ago
by Peter Sanders
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 00:00

The Chemistry Laboratory Curriculum (CLC) Innovators Program is accepting applications for its 2025 cohort to help faculty teams transform chemistry labs into inquiry-based experiences with NSF support—apply by December 31, 2024!

Recent activity: 1 month 2 days ago
by Nina Hike
Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:41

How can chemistry address real-world issues? Explore how teaching Social Justice Science Issues helps students connect chemistry to their local communities. By integrating student community-centered storylines, teachers can engage students in critical thinking about chemistry topics and how they apply to their everyday lives. 

Recent activity: 1 month 2 weeks ago
by Tom Kuntzleman
Sat, 10/19/2024 - 12:17

A Picture-Perfect activity for National Chemistry Week 2024!

Recent activity: 1 month 2 weeks ago
by Tom Kuntzleman
Sat, 09/07/2024 - 11:17

This chemical reaction is just plain weird...but also beautiful!

Recent activity: 2 months 4 weeks ago
by Dean Campbell
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 12:41

Syenite rocks containing sodalite that fluoresce yellow have been found on Lake Superior beaches in recent years and are of interest to collectors. The fluorescence of this mineral, which can be found in other localities, can be shown in classrooms and studied spectroscopically. Its structure can also be modeled with LEGO bricks, enabling further classroom connections.

Recent activity: 3 months 2 weeks ago
by Anthony Stetzenmeyer
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 09:33

As the summer is coming to an end - here is how one AP Teacher has his students navigate the start of AP chemistry.

Recent activity: 3 months 4 weeks ago
by Melissa Hemling
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 22:33

Looking for a fun way to teach gas laws? Try using brain breaks! Activities like the Longest Straw Challenge and Suck it Up Skittles Challenge not only get students up and moving but also make learning Boyle's Law engaging and memorable.

Recent activity: 3 months 4 weeks ago