Blogs

ChemEd X contributors offer their ideas and opinions on a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to chemical education.

Blogs at ChemEd X reflect the opinions of the contributors and are open to comments. Only selected contributors blog at ChemEd X. If you would like to blog regularly at ChemEd X, please use our Contribution form to request an invitation to do so from one of our editors.

by Dean Campbell
Tue, 11/05/2024 - 19:26

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.

Recent activity: 1 day 22 hours ago
by Peter Sanders
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 00:00

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!

Recent activity: 4 days 21 hours ago
by Nina Hike
Sun, 10/20/2024 - 14:41

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. 

Recent activity: 2 weeks 3 days ago
by Tom Kuntzleman
Sat, 10/19/2024 - 12:17

A Picture-Perfect activity for National Chemistry Week 2024!

Recent activity: 2 weeks 2 days ago
by Tom Kuntzleman
Sat, 09/07/2024 - 11:17

This chemical reaction is just plain weird...but also beautiful!

Recent activity: 2 months 20 hours ago
by Dean Campbell
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 12:41

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.

Recent activity: 2 months 2 weeks ago
by Anthony Stetzenmeyer
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 09:33

As the summer is coming to an end - here is how one AP Teacher has his students navigate the start of AP chemistry.

Recent activity: 3 months 1 day ago
by Melissa Hemling
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 22:33

Looking for a fun way to teach gas laws? Try using brain breaks! Activities like the Longest Straw Challenge and Suck it Up Skittles Challenge not only get students up and moving but also make learning Boyle's Law engaging and memorable.

Recent activity: 3 months 1 day ago
by Melissa Hemling
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 22:46

Discover how "Solubility Showdown," a lively brain break game, transforms learning solubility rules into a memorable experience filled with student banter and excitement.

Recent activity: 3 months 1 week ago
by Melissa Hemling
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 21:37

The Ion Chip Challenge is an interactive brain break game where students play rock-paper-scissors to exchange electron chips, helping them understand ion formation by addressing common misconceptions about positive and negative charges. This engaging activity combines movement and social interaction, making chemistry concepts more accessible and reinforcing that ions are formed through the transfer of electrons, not protons.

Recent activity: 3 months 1 week ago