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.
Michael Jansen shares his thoughts about "softly" introducing topics before their formal appearance in the curriculum.
The color of a thermochromic system depends on its temperature. The colors of leuco dye-based systems can also be influenced by adding acids or bases to the thermochromic reactions. These can be used to create colorful demonstrations of acid-base chemistry. Thermochromism found in color changing cups can also be used to visualize heat flow, and therefore thermodynamic principles, associated with stretching and contracting elastomers.
Javalab is a resource for free simulations to support student understanding of chemistry concepts. These web based simulations can be used across different platforms and are simple in their use by students. The open ended aspect of the simulations allow for teachers to be creative in how they are used in class.
This "first day" activity is an opportunity to help students practice asking good questions!
Nora Walsh shares some of her favorite FIRST WEEK of school activities for the chemistry classroom!
Ashley Green shares a variety of digital card sort activities!
Ordinary playing cards can be used in games where the cards model valence electrons in atoms. These games could provide players with a fun and active way to practice counting valence electrons in simple chemical structures.
Chem Cards is a game including 118 cards, one for each element. It is designed to familiarize students of all ages with chemical terminology so they grow comfortable with the topic and equate it to an exciting, team building experience.
We hope to see you at ChemEd 2023 in Guelph, Ontario!
With a little chemical investigation, you can figure out how Jet-Puffed's new color changing marshmallows work!