high school

Reflections on a Year of AP

As I write this, it is the day before the national AP Chemistry exam. We’ve been working toward this day since August. We’ve endured late hours, broken crucibles, anxiety, and tears.  I’ve run weekend and evening review sessions, we’ve ta

Stoichiometry is Easy

This article describes a three week lesson plan for teaching stoichiometry using an algorithmic method. Two labs (one designed as a laboratory quiz) several cooperative learning exercises, student worksheets and guided instructional frameworks (forcing students to develop good habits in writing measures and doing problem solving) are included. The highlight of the lessons is the "chemistry carol" (based on Felix Mendelssohn's music for "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing") in which students recite a five-step algorithm for completing stoichiometry problems. 

High School Science Research at the BCCE!

Hi. If you're at the BCCE and considering talks for Thursday morning, please consider coming to my talk at 10:15 in MAK A1117 (Erin Wasserman). I will be talking generally about high school enrichment programs with a big focus on the practical side of how to set up and run a science research program. You'd be surprised at how an authentic research experience can imapct a young kid!