Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education: "Active Chemistry" -- An Inquiry-based Secondary Chemistry Curriculum

It'S About Time, A Division Of Herff-Jones Inc., Mount Kisco NY

Investigators

Abstract

"Active Chemistry" is a modular, one year, stand-alone, inquiry-based, secondary school chemistry course. It is modeled in design and pedagogical strategies on "Active Physics" and is meant to follow it or to be used in conjunction with it to become a physical science course. "Active Chemistry" is aligned with the National Science Education Standards and State Frameworks that directs all students, grades 9-12, to learn the science necessary to solve real-world problems. The four chapters on Sports Science and Health, Environmental Issues, Entertainment, and Energy contain three modules. Each module includes a chapter challenge, a scenario, activities, and a final project assignment. Students work together in groups to acquire the knowledge needed to address the challenge. Chemical concepts are introduced on a need to know basis and topics reappear in various chapters providing multiple exposures in different contexts. The teacher resources provide a scope and sequence presented in matrix format with unifying and fundamental concepts identified, suggested instructional strategies and techniques, and other resources including precautions on safety issues, equipment lists and assessment tools. A professional development video for one chapter is provided.