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.
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 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.
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!
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.
A Picture-Perfect activity for National Chemistry Week 2024!
This chemical reaction is just plain weird...but also beautiful!
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.
