Chemical Education Xchange

A “Buzzing” Introduction to Significant Figures

Allison Tarvin | Sat, 02/07/2015 - 14:06

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Education “buzz words” can be meaningless jargon, or they can challenge us to consider new approaches to teaching and learning. Don’t let the jargon be a buzz kill!

“Significant figures are so confusing,” says my former student, who is currently taking AP Chemistry. My PowerPoint lecture with lab to follow didn’t work. Convicted, I wrestled with transforming my tired lesson. I embraced the buzz words. Let’s look at a significant figures lesson that changed my compliant, quiet learners to ENGAGED COLLABORATORS.

Great Lakes Bioenergy Educational Programs

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The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center offers educational programs for teachers and students. Teachers may apply for a 7-week bioenergy research opportunity in which they also develop curriculum to bring back to their classrooms. The programs runs from June 22 - Auust 7 and offers a $7000 stipend. Deadline to apply March 20, 2015.

Project 2061 Workshop - Understanding and Using Next Generation Science Learning Goals

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This workshop is intended to provide the teacher with tools, strategies and resources to help them meet the challenges of implementing NGSS.

Held in Washington D.C. on March 26 & 27, 2015.

Teachers Needed for Assessment Field Tests - Project 2061

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Project 2061 is a long term initiative of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) focused on improving science education. Among other things, Project 2061 produces assessment items and concept inventories to support science educators.

Project 2061 is currently recruiting teachers to field test multiple choice tests relating to energy. Students must be enrolled in grades 4 through 12.

Deadline to apply is March 31, 2015.

Chemical Mystery #4: The Case of the Misbehaving Balloon

Tom Kuntzleman | Tue, 02/03/2015 - 11:19

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Conducting experiments with liquid nitrogen experiments is a sure-fire way to energize many chemistry lessons. Check out the Misbehaving Balloon demo!

ChemEd Legacy Award (CELA) Scholarship

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First time attendees and presenters can apply for a scholarship to attend ChemEd 2015. The scholarship program will cover the registration fee for more than 12 first-time ChemEd attendees and more than 12 first-time speakers/presenters. Travel and lodging are not covered under this scholarship program.