Mad Science: Instant Snow

In the dark days before the Internet, I got ideas from science journals and catalogs such as Educational Innovations, which is where I first encountered Instant Snow Polymer.  Kids love Instant Snow.  Here is a lab idea.  Good Will has a listing for Mad Lab Magic Snow.  Before you succumb to temptation and bid on this listing, compare prices!  Amazon sells Mad Lab Magic Snow as party favors for roughly the same price.  Educational Innovations lists Instant Snow for about $7 for 100 grams.  The Mad Lab Magic Snow contains 10 grams in each container.  There are many listings under $5 for 100 grams; these usually ship from China and may take to arrive until it snows outside next winter.  Here are ideas from Steve Spangler for creative ways to use Instant Snow.  My favorite activity is to put a bit of snow polymer in a cup and add warm water to watch it puff.  Once the water evaporates, the snow can be reused.  Fun, right?

Nuclear Energy Project

Does the topic of Nuclear Energy seem random?  Yes, many of my posts seem random.  My husband, Rob, teaches Physics.  He wants his Physics students to research energy projects.  This post is for his kids.  The following is a list of questions and links to guide the students as they research nuclear energy.
1.  What is Nuclear Energy?
2.  How does a Nuclear Power plant produce electricity?
3.  What is radiation?
4.  Calculate your annual exposure to radiation.
5.  Explain the basics regarding nuclear radiation.
6.  How is radiation detected?
7.  How is radiation measured?
8.  Timeline of Nuclear Power Plant accidents.
9.  What happened at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania?
10.  Is Nuclear Power clean and safe?

Prepare a presentation.
1. Title
2. The guiding question is ‘Is Nuclear Energy clean and safe?
3. Include all of the aspects listed above in your presentation.
4.  Use information and websites representing views and background both in favor and against the use of nuclear energy.  Explain both perspectives.
5.  Use Prezi, PowerPoint, Google Slides etc for your presentation.
6.  Include a minimum of 25 slides.
7. Here are tips for preparing a good presentation.
8.  Include citations using MLA or Chicago Turabian.

Human Biology: Covid-19 Nursing Paper

Update: Add  Bacillus Calmette-Guerin to the list of material to research. 

My Human Biology course has been on hold for the past two weeks.   My student, Anna, is a serious student and wants to pursue a career in medicine.  What is the obvious answer?  A Nursing Paper about Clovid-19.  Below is the guide I sent to Anna.

1.  What is Covid-19?  Which viruses (SARS or MRS) are similar?  What is an RNA virus?  How does it differ from a DNA virus?

2.  Where did Covid-19 originate?  How did it first transfer to humans?

3.  What are the symptoms?  Who is most impacted or at risk?  Why?

4.  Discuss treatment measures and differentiate methods based on age groups.  Include risks.  Discuss the clinical trials.

5. How is Covid-19 tested?  Discuss some issues surrounding testing.

6.  Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin are demonstrating promise as treatment.               Discuss how the two drug regimens work.

7.  What is the purpose of social distancing and isolation?

8.  Summarize your findings.  The  Abstract and Conclusion mirror each other.

9.  Cite your sources.

Reintroduction: Are you even qualified to teach science?

Good question!  There are new people looking for help with science.  I can imagine you are wondering if I am qualified to write about science.  When I taught in private schools, occasionally a parent frustrated with a child’s performance in science would ask if I was even qualified to teach.  I was happy to supply my resume.  I kept it up to date.  I am certified in Biology and Chemistry, with National Board Certification in Chemistry.  I taught in private prep schools, public school, and a small Christian school after I retired.  For several years I was an adjunct instructor for two nonmajor, chemistry courses at a local university.  When I taught in a public high school, I was permitted to have Co-op Chemistry, Biology, and Physical Science classes after school in my classroom.  I have been working with Co-op classes for eight years.  These are the classes I have taught over my career: Earth Science, Physical Science, Life Science, Biology, Active Physics, Human Biology, Chemistry, AP Chemistry, AP Biology, and AP Environmental Science.  In private schools, science teachers teach nearly everything—I drew the line at Physics.  In public school, I generally taught Chemistry and AP Environmental Science.  Additionally, my home-school friends asked me to lead summer science camps.  I had hosted several camps at two private schools.  For several summers, we had science camp at our church.  Now, I have Co-op classes.  This year is Chemistry; last year was Biology.  These two classes are in demand for high school students.  This coming summer, Quarantine permitting, friends and I are planning a week-long science camp.  Yes, my background is unusually diversified for a science teacher.  Additionally, I have been reviewing home-school portfolios for the past eight to ten years—I don’t remember when I began.  Friends at church trusted me to be fair reviewing their portfolios for the local public school systems.  Word traveled.  I became more familiar with a variety of Catholic home-school programs.  Before I retired, I did some consulting for College Board promoting and teaching hands-on science.  For the past twenty years, I wrote grant proposals for science programs—mostly environmental projects because there is a lot of cash.   I think I’m qualified—mostly I’m opinionated.  I entered a new phase this year when close family friends asked me to home-school their freshman daughter.  Lacie and I are figuring out her curriculum.  Happily she loves Chemistry.  The Quarantine means my nine year old grandson, Paul, is home-schooled for the first time since his public school closed for the year.  Qualified?  I do know I bring a vast amount of experience to teaching science.

Young Explorers Zoology 1: Test Chapters 1-3

I wanted to share a simple test I made for Paul, 9, who is studying Zoology 1.  Zoology 1 Chapter 1-3 Test.  I love the Journal activities, crosswords, and projects.  Paul needs to learn how to study.  So, in addition to working in the Journal, he is taking tests periodically.

Wow!  This test was quite a learning experience!  Paul, 9, is quarantined from his public school.  He has never home-schooled before.  I created a study guide which he completed.  He studied his notes and took the test.  What a lot of griping!  At the public school, fourth-graders use their study guide notes prepared in class to take multiple-choice tests.  We had a lively discussion about learning how to study.  Veteran home-schoolers have an advantage when it comes to studying.  The kids are accustomed to reading, making notes, and preparing independently.

Apologia Chemistry: Module 10 Experiment 10.1 Household Acids and Bases

Module 10 is Acids and Bases.  Experiment 10.1 is Common Examples of Acids and Bases.  The lab requires litmus red and blue paper and a variety of household chemicals.  Dr. Wile suggests toilet bowl cleaner, The Works or Limeaway.  Please do NOT use toilet bowl cleaners, Limeaway, The Works, Draino, Red Devil or Lye.  These are strong bases and extremely caustic. 

Dr. Wile has detailed notes on the lab.  You may follow his instructions step or step.  My instructions are to assemble a wide variety of household chemicals.  Start in the kitchen: baking soda, salt, lemon juice, tonic water, vinegar, and citric acid.  Now explore the bathroom: clear shampoo, clear hand soap, micelle cleansers, and mouthwash.  Safe cleaners are Windex, ammonia, borax detergent.  Now create a chart of the household chemicals you are going to test.  Make a prediction.  Do you think the item is acidic, basic, or neutral?  Then test the chemical to see if it is acidic, basic, or neutral. 

If you have red and blue litmus, here is how to do the tests.  Red litmus turns blue in the presence of a base; blue litmus turns red in the presence of an acid.  If both red and blue litmus remain the same, the substance is neutral.  If you are using pH paper, items with a pH less than 7 are acidic; those greater than 7 are basic.  Here is a pH and litmus color chart.  If you have red cabbage powder (Magic crystals), here are the colors for acids, bases, and neutral chemicals.  (The link has instructions for making red cabbage indicator with red cabbage leaves.)  Below are examples of the chemicals and a chart.

smART Pixelator Toy Review

I bought a smART Pixelator toy from Good Will with an organizer with extra beads, sequins, and pegs.  Paul, Lacie, and I set up the device and made a robot today after classes.  The Pixelator is a combination of Perler beads and Lite Brite on steroids.  We made a simple robot.  We also took a screen shot of a pokeball to see how hard it is to upload an image and transfer the image to the Pixelator screen.  The Pixelator requires a smartphone or an iPad.  I set up the account on my iPad.  Lacie set up the Pixelator.  It requires three C batteries.  The Pixelator has an adaptor and SD card.  Assembly was easy.  The iPad connects with bluetooth to the Pixelator.  Once you select an image on the app on the iPad, the image transfers to the Pixelator.  The lights are the colors of the melty beads.  Once we made the robot, I ironed the pattern according to the directions.  After 30 seconds, some of the beads moved.  I was able to replace the beads and iron it again successfully.  (Perler beads often require a longer period of heat from the iron than described in the directions.)  The Pixelator is pretty cool.  Kids can upload any image and convert it to lights and load the beads on to the plastic template.  Start with simple 15 minute projects.  I think the beads are smaller than Perler beads.  I plan to order some to compare the sizes.  There are smART Pixelators available for sale on eBay.  The original kit includes beads--not very many.  eBay has organizers with extra beads, sequins, and pegs.  If your child like Perler beads she may like the Pixelator.

           This is an image of the home screen paired with an image.  There are images on the SD card.

We selected the robot and the image appears on the Pixelator.

                                     
                                      
                                                           Here is the finished robot.

Apologia Chemistry: FaceTime it!

I am writing from the homeschool trenches.  Our Co-op is working remotely.  All of the kids in the Co-op are long tenured home-schoolers.  The problem is Chemistry is tough.  Our Co-op class works in teams and does as much as possible hands-on.  Some students need the team support.  How are we coping?  Lacie is Face-timing daily with her peers.  They take out assignments and work together on them.  This situation is NOT unusual at all.  I have the kids read the module and watch instructional videos.  Guess what?  They often need a classmate to interpret the material, often explaining lessons in the same manner as I just taught.  Kids listen better to their peers.  Let them Skype or FaceTime each other.  It helps.

Apologia Science: Film it!

Today, Lacie and Paul filmed the lab ‘Like Dissolves Like’. Right now, I am recording videos for the kids which align with the Chemistry course.  Kids like to film.  It is a good way to see if they understand the material.  I find that kids have a better understanding of the lab.  First have them read over the lab, set up the materials, and do a practice run.  I post to my YouTube channel.  You can keep videos private and send them to Grandma or cousins.  Your kids are going to enjoy the experiments more if they can film.

Module 9: Experiment 9.1 and 9.2

Our Co-op is working remotely.   Below are two videos demonstrating Experiments 9.1 and 9.2.  Here is another lab which is similar to Experiment 9.2.  The concept in Experiment 9.2 is "Like dissolves Like."  This means that similar solutes dissolve in similar solvents.  Ionic compounds dissolve in polar solvents, such as water.  Covalent compounds, such as sugar, dissolve in nonpolar solvents, such as oil.  "Like dissolves Like" is useful for removing stains.  Here is an article.

Below are videos with the substitutes for Experiments 9.1 and 9.2.

Apologia Young Explorers: Zoology 1 Bird Feeder Experiment

We are officially home-schooling our nine year old grandson, Paul.  We have unofficially been home-schooling him for weeks before.  I chose Zoology 1 because he did not get much in the way of science before in school.  Paul does not like anything related to Anatomy.  He does like birds and has built several bird houses.  We already have several resources: Identiflyers, bird identification books,  a birdhouse, and two Squirrel-buster bird feeders.  Paul is reading each lesson and working through the Notebooking Journal exercises.  We started the Life List in the Journal.  Here are state checklists for birds.  We are using the Identiflyer to learn bird calls.

Today, we started the “What food do birds prefer?” experiment.  We are following the guide in the textbook and using the Speculation sheet in the Journal.  We have two squirrel-buster bird feeders.  Paul is measuring the number of centimeters each day of bird food consumed.  Here are a few suggestions.  I modified the hypothesis.  A hypothesis has two parts: null and alternate.  For this experiment, the null hypothesis is, “The birds will eat the same amount of bird seed from each feeder.”  The alternate or alternative hypothesis is, “The birds will eat more seed from the feeder with premium seed.”  (We have generic bird seed and a bag of parrot seed I bought accidentally instead of parakeet seed—which my parakeets will not eat and spit out instead.   A better comparison would be between sunflower seeds and birdseed.  This experiment may have confounding variables, things which confuse the experiment.  In our case, while we do not have squirrels eating the bird seed, we may attract a raccoon which visits.  He climbs the gutters and walks over the roof to shake the bird feeder attached to the deck.  We plan to note any outside interference.  Factors such as squirrels and raccoons are confounding variables.  Paul is going to identify the controlled variables, too: same bird feeders, same location on the deck, same amount of seed, same weather conditions, etc.  We are adding a section to the speculation sheet called ‘Discussion’.  In the Discussion, all of the factors which can lead to bias or uncertain results are mentioned.  We just started.  I plan to have Paul post photos and results along with his report.

Mad Science: Launchers

Need an idea for hands-on science?  How about launchers?  Let’s start with this Peep Launcher.  If you have PVC pipe on hand, try Bottle Blast Off!  I bet at this point in quarantine you aren’t discarding any recycled materials.  I like Root-Copters.  For this activity, you will need paper clips and a printed template.  Make catapults with rubber bands and craft sticks.  Save your paper towel or toilet rolls to make this type of launcher or make a cup launcher.  Yeah, toilet paper rolls gross me out, too.  As long as we are making toys, let’s build a rubber band copter.

Free Periodic Table Poster and other Freebies!

Basher Books has free downloads, including a Periodic Table.  Right now, there are so many free resources, such as this planner.  Did you see all of the Virtual Tours?  Xfinity has The Great Courses on demand.  Yes, I saw Chemistry under the listings.  The Kennedy Center has Lunch Doodles with Mo Willems and entertainment in their Digital Stage.  The National Parks are free for hikes and offer Webcams to watch wildlife.  The Giant Panda cam is still operating at the National Zoo.  Did you know Amazon has free digital education resources?  Here is Super Hero Election and Roll a Story.  Let’s take advantage of the fact millions of families are home-schooling for the first time!

Science Camp at Home: Optical Illusions

Your kids need more science.  How about optical illusions? My favorite optical illusion is Flipsticks.  Next, kids love making these optical illusions called CD Spinners.  Try this experiment, Persistence of Vision.  Here is one more fun experiment called The Stroop Effect.  Here are more resources: Explora-Book by Klutz,  Eye Openers, and Crayola’s 3D Hand Drawing.  I bet your kids won’t realize they are learning science!  Be sure to include the explanations when you do the activities.  Your explanation can be as simple as this illusion tricks the brain.

Potomac Highlands eSchool

In our area, the schools are using material from Khan Academy.  The elementary grades material is limited to Math and Reading.  I mentioned Potomac Highlands Watershed eSchool in a recent post.  I want to highlight the eSchool, especially for kids.  I used the eSchool as an enrichment program with my high school students.  Start with the Teachers’ door.  Try the activities.  My high school students participated in the Stream Cleaner forum.  The students formed groups, researched the topics, wrote position papers, and then engaged in an online discussion.  While the e-forum  is closed, the materials are available: the Introduction worksheet, Point of View or POV writing tips, Six Framing Questions, Watershed Vocabulary, and a Water Quality Primer. 

If your family is working on an environmental program, start at Potomac Highland e-School for some background information on watersheds and water quality.  My kids did background research here before working on projects outside.  One last tip.  Do you see BMIs?  Click on BMI and you will see the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Portal with a virtual stream sampler.  Here is a tool to learn how to identify macroinvertebrates in a stream.  Hope this helps!

Module 9: Polyatomic Ions and Molecular Geometry

I am posting material in advance for my students who are working remotely.   Below are videos relating to Module 9.  There are two handouts: VESPR Chart of Molecular Shapes and a Practice Worksheet for Molecules.  My students are reading the module, watching the videos, and doing the practice sheet.  See the videos below.

Apologia Chemistry Module 8: Lesson Overview

Module 8 is Molecular Structure.  Our Co-op is in quarantine and working remotely.  The kids are reading the entire module and watching the videos.  (See below.)  Lastly, the kids are drawing Lewis Dot Diagram Structures. (Key)

Science Camp at Home: Density

Let’s treat the Quarantine as Camp.  Let’s begin with Density.  Start with Sink or Swim or Sink or Float.  Create a data table.  (See below.) Use the same volumes of liquids in the same containers.  Make predictions before testing the objects.  Summarize your results.

Data Table

Object.         Prediction                   Water.               Oil.            Corn syrup

Penny

Cork

Paper clip

Raisin

Bead

Use the oil, corn syrup, and water to create a density column.   This experiment requires alcohol, dish detergent, honey, and lamp oil.  Use the liquids you have on hand.  This works best in a tall, cylindrical glass or tube.

Will a bowling ball float?  It depends.  Do you have a bowling ball?  Bowling balls under 12 lbs float; ball great than 12 lbs sink.  If you want to test a light bowling ball in a deep sink or basin, add ice to the water so the water’s density is as close to 1.0 g/ mL.

One last idea is a Penny Boat Challenge.  The only materials needed are pennies and pieces of aluminum foil.

Watersheds

Are you looking for project ideas?  One idea is Watersheds.  What is a watershed?  Start with The Watershed Sleuth Challenge by NEEF.  Next, Build a Watershed.  Crumpled Paper Watershed requires even fewer supplies.  Print and play this watershed game.  Now go outside and Observe a Stream.  Take a notebook.  Draw a sketch of the stream or pond.  Take photos.  Note the date and time.  Want more information?  Try Potomac Highlands Watershed eSchool.  (This resource guide is from their site.  Lick on the teacher’s door to locate lessons.).

Once you have an understanding of watersheds and have completed general observations of a stream, consider doing a stream study and identify macroinvertebrates.  What are they?  Aquatic Macroinvertebrates are generally insect larva.  The types of critters in the stream indicate how clean the water is.  Some insect larva are sensitive to poor water quality.  Other organisms such as worms and leeches are not sensitive.  Here is an example of a data sheet to measure the health of the stream. Do you want to test the chemical properties?  Lamotte Earth Force Kit is easy to use.  It’s low cost compared more extensive Water Quality Kits, which are $400-$500.  Instead measure the pH with strips and the temperature with a thermometer.  An armored thermometer is best for stream studies.

Watershed studies can include Riparian Buffers.  These are the green area along streams.  Planting along streams is a great project for kids.  If your kids are interested in field studies, the topics are endless.  Want more?  Look at GLOBE.

Apologia Science: Home-School Resources

Apologia Science  is widely used in the Home-School community.  Are you quarantined?  Did you just order a textbook from Amazon or eBay?  Now how do you set up a schedule? Here are suggested syllabi for all of the Apologia textbook programs including the Young Explorers Series for elementary aged students.  BTW the Young Explorer Series Notebook Journal have a syllabus, too.  Take a look at this sample. (Swipe or page right to see the table of contents, sample reading, experiment, and suggested syllabus.)  Apologia has its own YouTube Channel.  Try the Young Explorers Series Frequently Asked Questions.

Do you need to buy a science kit for the labs in the textbook?  Maybe.  Before you buy a kit, look at the kit’s contents., such as this kit for Apologia Physical Science textbook labs.  Look at this lab kit for Apologia Chemistry and Physics.  Some courses require more specialized equipment.  Home Science Tools offers single supplies, such as a compass for $1.20 or a ring magnet for $0.95.  Their prices are competitive.  Hope this helps!

Apologia Chemistry: Module 8 Periodic Trends Video Intro

Here is a brief intro video to Periodic Trends.  These trends are patterns across the Periodic Table, across the rows or periods and down the columns, groups, or families.  Take a look.

Mad Science: Let’s do projects!

New to home-schooling?  Is your child balking at four hours of continuous work?  Let’s do projects!  Paul, our grandson, is in fourth grade and enrolled in a school.  I have assigned work for him: English, Math, Science, and History.  This involves a great deal of griping.  We are also doing projects.  Where do you get ideas?  First, Paul is working in Zoology 1, part of Apologia’s Young Explorers Series.  The textbooks in the series have many experiments and project ideas, such as going on a scavenger hunt or creating a hummingbird solution.  One project suggestion is bird watching; Cornell has ideas.  Start a bird check list of common feeder birds.  Make a bird feeder.  I plan to do the wildlife assessment with our grandson, Paul.  He will evaluate the backyard and surroundings in terms of wildlife: food, water, shelter, and nesting spots.  My plan is to make this a project complete with photos and a report.

Here is another project—Badges!  Your child doe NOT have to be enrolled in Scouts to do the requirements for a badge.  Here is a list of Merit Badges for Boy Scouts, here are Cub Scout Adventures, and Girl Scout Awards and Badges.

Many organizations have ideas for outdoor activities.  Here are a few resources for kids: US Forstry, Trout Unlimited, and National Wildlife Foundation. Are you stuck in an apartment?  Try the Potomac Highlands eSchool.  What are you waiting for?  Let’s get started!

Help! My teen is quarantined! What should I teach?

The home-school community is well positioned to cope with the quarantine.  Let me make a few suggestions.  Concentrate on core subjects: Math, English, History, and Science.  (Here is my Home-school help post with some resources.) Spend four hours each day doing a solid curriculum.  Are you familiar with Stobaugh Mastery books?  Stobaugh has history and literature curricula.  Buy sets of World History and World Literature or American or British History and Literature.  My Brit Lit classes uses Stobaugh.  How is your teen’s writing?  Try Writing Better Essays in 20 Minutes a Day.  How is his grammar?  Start with Easy Grammar. 

Which math does your teen take?  Give her a math assessment.  New York has Regents exams with answer keys for Math, English, History, and Science courses.  Too hard? Virginia has released final exams in core subjects, too.  Give your teen these assessments—particularly in Math and English.  Have her invest her time relearning material she missed.  Saxon Math and Apologia Science are widely available used on Amazon and eBay.  These publishers are used by many home-school students.  Yes, they are a bit dry; the material is comprehensive.

Now, pause your teen’s device on the Internet, kick them out of bed at 9:00 am, and get them working for four hours every day!  No breaks, no excuses, no whining!

Apologia Chemistry: Module 8 Lewis Dot Diagrams Video

We are officially quarantined.  My Co-op class is experimenting with distant learning.  In addition to emails and posts on Google Classroom, I am posting brief videos.  The videos are similar to the lectures I do in class.  The first video topic is Lewis Dot Diagrams.  What do Lewis Diagrams have to do with electron configurations?  Watch below.

Apologia Chemistry: Module 8 Periodic Trends

I am trying to align my class plans with quarantine.  The kids are completing the energy calculations for Flame Test Kit lab and doing electron configurations for elements 1-36.  I assigned POGIL’s Electron Configuration packet to summarize configurations.  (Key).

Next the kids need to learn how to write Lewis Dot Diagrams from the electron configurations.  I need to make a video.  I assigned March Madness to complete.  Finally there are PeriodmTrend activities.  The first Periodic Trend activity is graphing ionic radii and the second is Periodicity in 3D, both in the Chapter 6.3 packet.  Then I want  the kids to organize Alien Periodic Tables.  Here is the Khan Academy video series for Periodic Trends.  This week I will make graphs and models to post as examples.  See below.

Graph Ionic Radii Activity

                                             I am graphing electronegativity NOT ionic radii.

                  The data is right in the 6.3 link above.  This is the electronegativity data.

                                                 Include a title.

                                             Label the axes.

                                         Set the correct scale for each axis.

                                             The scale for each axis may be different.

                                                Plot the data.  Label the elements.

3D Periodic Trends Activity: I plotted ionic radii.  Plot a different property.

                               The 3d Periodic Table is Plotting in Three Dimensions in packet 6.3.

                                                  The Flinn activity is similar.

                                           I used plastic straws and measured the lengths in mm.

 I was limited by the length of the straw.  The idea is to visualize the pattern.  This periodic trend in ionic radii.  Note how the trend changes as you do down the Periodic Table and across the Periodic Table.  Notice that only s-block and p-block elements are represented in the trends.  The s-block and p-block elements are called main group or representative elements. 

We are officially quarantined. Now what?

Our co-op is officially quarantined.  Now what are we going to do?  I sent my kids an email reminding them of their assignments due.  Then I pulled the material for Electron Configurations and Periodic Trends.  Thankfully we completed the Flame Test lab.  I organized several assignments on Google Classroom.  This week I want to start Periodic Trends, part of Module 8.  I am reviewing Khan Academy and other videos for the kids.  We may do video chats.  I took a look at Google Hang-outs.  I plan to make up work samples to photograph and video instructions to post.  Thankfully the kids are accustomed to Google Classroom and post or email assignments.  As we adapt to Quarantine, I will post my instructions.

Contagion Lab

How do germs spread?  I do a Contagion or Epidemics Lab in my Biology classes.  This activity requires phenolphthalein.  Put a few drops in one cup.  Next fill enough cups with water for the Co-op group.  Be sure to include the cup with the phenolphthalein.  Encourage the students to exchange water from their cups.  Lastly, add a few drops of the base, 1M  NaOH, to every cup.  The cups which are pink have exchanged germs with someone who had residue of phenolphthalein.  Usually, one cup is bright pink and represents the source of contagion.  No one should drink any of the water.  Phenolphthalein used to be the key ingredient in X-lax and is a laxative.  It is NOT used in laxatives now because it was found to cause cancer in large quantities.  Sadly, I can no longer buy phenolphthalein over the counter. 

Hand-washing Lesson

When I work with a large group of littles, such as kindergarten, I include a lesson with Glo Germs and the book, Germs Make Me Sick.  Surprise!  I have a kit with Glo Germs, a UV flashlight, and Germs book.  The lesson is simple.  I sprinkle a bit of Glo Germ powder on the table and explain that these germs are fake.  Then the kids apply a little Glo Germ lotion all over their hands.  Next, the littles are instructed to wash their hands.  After they wash, I shine a UV flashlight on to their hands, especially under the nail beds to show the spots which glow, representing germs.  At this point, at least one little bursts into tears, forgetting the fact the germs are fake.  Every single time.  The kids rewatch their hands and I re-examine their hands for germs.  What is odd is that older kids like this activity, too.  When I work with littles, I bring teen helpers.  They enjoy Glo Germs as much as the littles.

Apologia Chemistry: Solutions

In the spirit of planning for an impending Co-op quarantine for Coronavirus, I am putting together ideas for Solutions (Module 11 2e).  Yes, the kids can do the experiments in their textbooks.  I usually, have the kids make serial dilutions, different concentrations of CuSO4, and dilute stock solutions.  I want to do the Kool aid Concentration Lab.  This is tough to do with out a digital scale.  I may need to send home digital scales along with other supplies.  Once the kids make up known concentrations, they can dilute them.  We may need to use a simulation.  Sigh.

Apologia Chemistry: Acids and Bases

I am planning materials in case Co-op is quarantined.  Happily, it is pretty easy to do pH labs at home.  I am ordering extra pH strips.  We can do the Household Lab from the textbook.  I have the kids grab loads of different household chemicals: baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, tonic water, shampoo, soft soap, hand sanitizer, clear liquids.  The kids make a table with their prediction and the results.  We will do the Acid Base Titration using the textbook, too.  If we are quarantined, the kids will do some of the PhET simulations such as Acid Base Solutions.  PhET has several good simulations for Chemistry.  For me, simulations are a last resort.

Apologia Chemistry: Enthalpy and Thermodynamics

One upcoming module (Modules 2 and 13 in 2e and Modules 12 and 13 in 3e) is Enthalpy and Thermodynamics.  Topics include, Enthalpy, Temperature, Measurements, Calibrating a Thermometer, Specific Heat, Energy Diagrams, and Change in Heat.  I am accumulating labs.  A good first lab is Temperature Scale after we use the instructions in the textbook (Experiment 2.1) to calibrate the thermometers.  I want to try Temperature and Thermal Energy and Heat Curve.   I plan to do both Specific Heat and Soda Can Calorimetry labs.  Kids can compare different calorimeters or make a coffee cup calorimeter.  I use a styrofoam coffee cup with a lid in a glass beaker as a calorimeter.  Yes, I have compared the results with other types of calorimeters.  Here is the good news.  If our Co-op is quarantined, the kids should have most of the supplies at home to do these labs.

PASCO Lab Investigations

PASCO supplies lab interfaces and sensors, such as Spark Learning Systems, GLX, Airlink, and newer products such as wireless sensors.  PASCO has a new chemistry textbook and released student lab investigations available for preview.  The labs are useful for ideas.  This solubility lab is a good example. It’s a concise lab: identify the precipitates, write and balance the equations, determine which compound are soluble and insoluble.  The Temperature and Thermal Energy lab can be performed with any thermometer.  I plan to try this Specific Heat lab with several metals.  Kids find Specific Heat confusing.  I want to see if these instructions make sense to them.  I am always looking for new resources.  These lab exercises are great.

Apologia Chemistry: Module 8 Flame Tests

Update: We used butane lighters and sterno for the flame tests instead of alcohol burners.  I rarely use  alcohols burners.  I think they are dangerous.


After a brief review of electron configurations today, the kids are doing Flinn’s Flame Tests lab.  This copy has teacher’s notes—always useful to new instructors.  The teacher’s notes have answers to the energy calculations, too.  We are testing the lighters and sterno results with the flame colors.  I have color flame birthday candles to use with the spectroscope.

The kids always forget how to conduct lab with an open flame.  I have to watch the kids closely.  Ideally, the kids should have on long sleeve cotton shirts, aprons, and safety glasses.  Remind them not to lean over the flame with paper, hair, or sleeve.  The kids compared the flame colors in the butane lighter and with the sterno heat source.  The results were similar.  I was concerned the sterno would mask the color of the metallic salts.  We went over the Energy calculations in class.  The completed calculations in the data table serve as the lab grade.  Here are some pix.

Mad Science Camp: Competitions

Lego Masters has a bridge competition.  It reminded me of Bridge Competitions. Mousetrap Car Competition, and Cub Scout Pinewood Derbies.  Kings Dominion hosts a Coaster Competition.  Other ideas include index card towers, aluminum foil boats, spaghetti marshmallow towers, and these    Cups, craft sticks, and blocks towers for younger kids.

I want the kids to design Lego Rubber band cars to race.  We can have several easy challenges on hand for emergency science activities: aluminum foil boats, cup towers, paper blocks, and an airplane challenge.  I’ll pull a box of supplies.

Color Chemistry

Just like you are, I am tempted by STEM kits.  Crayola’s Color Chemistry Set is a good example of a STEM kit.  Now look at the contents.  There is a spinner to color.  You can make them!  This spinner shows how to make your own templates.  Make optical illusion spinners.  Here is one more spinner suggestion.  The Crayola Color Chemistry Set includes slime.  Here and here are examples of DIY color changing slime.  The Crayola Set has fizzy tablets.  Color fizzers contain pigment, citric acid, and baking soda.  Mix citric acid, baking soda, and a bit of paint pigment to make your own fizzy crystals.  Mix the crystals with instant snow.  The Crayola Set includes sodium alginate.  Make your own gummy worms.  Just add glow powder.  Yes, it takes more effort to create your own color chemistry experiments.  It’s worth it!

Mad Science Camp: Big Picture Overview

Here is the spreadsheet for Mad Science Camp.  This is a work in progress.  I have a schedule of activities for all five days.  Notes that Day 5 is packed.  It pays to have extra activities in case you needed to borrow some experiments for days earlier in the week.  I have tried to add the links and materials.  As I scan the list of materials, I am making notes about which items I need to buy.  Truthfully, I already have most of the materials.  Now I need to share this spreadsheet with my friends, Christine and Jen.  I want input, ideas for little ones, games, supplies, etc.  I will keep you posted.

Apologia Chemistry: Module 9

I am working on materials for upcoming modules.  After we finish periodicity, we are going to do Module 9 with molecular geometry and VSEPR.  Here is an excellent chart for molecular geometry.  This is the worksheet we are going to use. (Key)  I am using the  Molymod Molecular Geometry VSEPR kit.  If you do not have a molecule kit, try creating the molecules with balloons. 

Apologia Chemistry: Module 8

The kids are just learning how to do electron configurations.  Module 8 includes periodicity.  I am prepping materials for take-home kits.  The Coronavirus has hit Quantico which near my house.  What am I preparing?  First, Alien Periodic Table, Periodic Chart Lab and Plotting Trends. (My Co-op will use plastic coffee straws on a transparency sheet.  The kids can stick the straws with pieces of modeling clay.) (I found an old post with a few more ideas or ways to model the periodic trends here.)  I am pulling activities for home: It’s Elementary March Madness!, POGIL Electron Configurations, and  The Mendeleev Song (I do it as a rap.)  Let's all say a little prayer Co-op can continue.  I dread the idea of doing Chemistry with videos, Google Classroom, and Skype.

Looking for more labs?   Periodic Trends and Ionic Radii Quick Lab  (Lab Recordsheet) is more of an activity than a lab.  (Scroll through the document to locate the Quick Lab.) The kids can graph other trends using  Plotting Trends. (Scroll to the last page for the data.)  The kids can also use their graphing calculators to plot the trends.  This chapter from Prentice Hall has a second lab, Periodicity in Three Dimensions, which is similar to Plotting Trends.  This Chapter from Prentice Hall is from the teacher's edition.  Read along the side of the page for more help. 

I am going to follow Apologia Chemistry (2ed) for the rest of the term.  It will make things easier if we have to implement distant learning.

Apologia Chemistry: Module 7 Quantum and Electron Configurations

Today I did my lecture on Quantum Theory and lesson on electron configurations.  I used several resources.  First, the kids have read the module.  (They are rereading the section on electron configurations for Thursday.)  This powerpoint slideshow is a good overview of electron configurations.  Khan Academy has an overview.  I give the kids a brief history of the development of  Quantum Theory and then refer to analogies.  One popular analogy is the apartment house (POGIL's Electron Configuration packet.  Key)  Then, we dive into the configurations.  As I teach, I am referring to my analogy, explaining energy levels, and demonstrating different orbital diagrams. (I use the Metro rules and George Foreman for my analogy.  No, I did not tape it.  I checked my videos.  I have never recorded the lesson.  Use the apartment house analogy here.)   We are going over electron configurations again Thursday.  I want to do flame tests Thursday, too.

Here are two exceptions to the Aufbau principle.

Here is why I stick with Christian textbooks for science...

I use Apologia science textbooks with my Co-op kids.  Why?  I trust Apologia.  I bring in labs, articles, and materials from a wide variety of sources.  But Apologia textbooks are Christian.  The world of Science is highly politicized and expects science teachers to be liberal and political, too. Right now science news sites such as Science by AAAS, Science Daily, or Scientific American are dominated by the coronavirus.  However, if you scroll down and browse the topics many are inappropriate for teens, are dominated by climate news and evolution.  I am careful about topics I introduce.  I want to teach Chemistry or Biology or Anatomy.  Period.  We have enough challenges to our faith.  This is why I trust Apologia.

Magic Science Kit

Here is why I love Good Will.  Compare the Good Will listing with this retail description.  When you look at the Good Will photos, it is evident you are buying some baking soda, citric acid, and a few chemicals.  Now, new, the Magic Science Kit retails for $13.38.  The Good Will listing with shipping is about $16–not a good deal.  I like to have a good look at the contents.  I am interested because the red cabbage powder and color tablets are expensive.  So, if I find this kit at Five Below, I might buy one.  But, it is important to price the contents of these kits.

Apologia Chemistry: Which textbook are you using?

Which textbook are we using?  I am too cheap to buy the third edition of Apologia Chemistry.  Some of my kids do use the third edition.  Most of the kids read from the first or second edition of Apologia Chemistry.  Consider the textbook as a safety net.  The kids should read each module.  I do not think the questions and tests are thorough.  Frankly, many of my problem sets, tests, and labs come from a wide variety of sources.  Apologia textbooks are written for Christians and widely accepted through online homeschool programs.  Apologia Chemistry is fine as an overview for Chemistry.

I have taught Chemistry for over 25 years and used several textbooks.  Here is a sample table of contents for high school Chemistry.  This is my overall agenda.  (I doubt I will cover Nuclear Chemistry.). Otherwise, these are the major topics in Chemistry.  Over my career, I have accumulated a number of excellent resources and ideas.  I have fixed ideas.  For example, I always include qualitative analysis, solubility rules, and organic chemistry.  For my kids, the textbook is a resource and guide.  What other textbooks do I keep on hand?  Introductory Chemistry has loads of problem sets I assign.  Prentice Hall Chemistry has some of the best quick lab ideas. The teacher’s guide has clear explanations for each lab.

Here is my advice.  Is this the first or second time you are teaching Chemistry?  Stick to the textbook.  Have the kids do all of the On Your Own problems and questions.  Use the tests for Apologia Chemistry’s second edition.  Are you planning to teach Chemistry again?  Now start branching out.  Stick with the Apologia textbook and supplement with extra labs.  You may want to add more nomenclature or gas law problems.  Keep in mind your goal—an introduction to Chemistry.  Apologia Chemistry provides a solid introduction.

Tech Again

What type of technology is easy to use for science?  One of the easiest data logger is Pasco’s GLX Xplorer.  This eBay listing has two thermometers and a voltmeter.  Both the steel probe and the white string are thermometers.  This listing has the CD and user manual. (The quick start guide is here.  I just looked at the user guide.  Wow!).  Here is a better deal on the GLX; however it does NOT include the adapter.  A good target price is $30 with shipping.

I use the GLX Xplorer with a thermometer—just as I use the thermometer with my TI 84 graphing calculator.  Here is the Energy Transfer Lab which requires a steel thermometer.  The Specific Heat Lab is written for the GLX.  One more!  The Latent Heat of Fusion  requires a thermometer and is written for the GLX.

The GLX has loads of functions.  No, I do not use half of it’s capacity.  Listen, I do NOT use half of the capacity of my iPhone or iPad either.  The GLX is rugged.  This is my suggestion for an entry level data cooling device.