Dimensional Analysis
Dimensional analysis might sound like an intimidating scientific term, but it’s a powerful tool that helps us make sense of the world around us. Dimensional analysis can be used to solve a wide range of problems in a variety of disciplines, from chemistry and physics to cooking and construction. It is a technique used to […]
Flame Tests and Spectroscopy: Get Excited About Color
Have you ever wondered what makes fireworks sparkle with color, why decorative fireplace logs burn green or blue, or how birthday cake candles burn with a flame that matches the candle? Students can investigate the phenomenon of colored flames using flame tests and spectroscopy. This visually impactful lab incorporates quantitative data to help explain abstract […]
The Physics of Vision
A Carolina EssentialsTM Activity Total Time: 30 mins Prep: 10 mins | Activity: 20 mins Physical Science 8-12 Middle/High School Total Time: 30 minutes [ Prep: 10 mins | Activity: 20 mins ] Subject: Physical Science Grade: Middle and High School Overview Understanding vision requires a knowledge of physics, anatomy, and physiology. This activity emphasizes […]
Carbon-Carbon Multiple Bonds: Structure and Function
A Carolina EssentialsTM Activity Total Time: 45-60 mins Prep: 15 mins | Activity: 30-45 mins | Research: 120 min Physical Science | Chemistry 9-12 High School Overview This is a modeling activity designed for pairs of students where students use molecular models to construct a simple 2-carbon alkane, then convert it to a 2-carbon alkene […]
Equilibrium and Milk of Magnesia Rainbow
A Carolina EssentialsTM Demonstration Total Time: 15-20 mins Prep: 20 mins | Activity: 15-20 mins Chemistry 9-12 High School Overview This demonstration shows a colorful reaction that is a good introduction to Le Châtelier’s principle, solubility, stoichiometry, neutralization reactions, and reaction rates. The demonstration uses readily available chemicals, is easy to set up and perform, […]
After the AP® Exam: What Now?
Your students worked hard and were well prepared. The test has come and gone, and there’s still time left on the school calendar. So, what happens now? You have a variety of options—including extending your curriculum, research projects, career exploration, service learning projects, and college preparation projects, to name a few. Ideas for Promoting Learning […]
A Model for Heat Capacity of Metals
A Carolina EssentialsTM Activity Total Time: 60-70 mins Prep: 15 mins | Activity: 45-55 mins Physical Science | Chemistry 9-12 High School Overview This simple activity models how kinetic energy is transformed into heat or thermal energy on the particle level. Additionally, by comparing data for 3 different metals—aluminum, copper, and lead—students construct a model […]
Solution Preparation Guide
Carolina offers many types of premade solutions, but some teachers prefer to make their own. If that is your interest, keep reading. This brief guide will provide you with the information you need to make a number of solutions commonly used in educational laboratories. Let’s review some safety considerations: To make a 1 M solution […]
Equilibrium Straw Activity
Chemistry students on all levels can have misconceptions about the definition of equilibrium. With the word sounding so much like “equal,” many students naturally assume that the concentrations or amounts of reactants and products, rather than rates, must be equal at equilibrium. This short lab activity helps to dispel that notion while reinforcing the idea […]
Top 10 Tips from AP Summer Institute Instructors to Prepare Students for an AP Exam
Test day may be several weeks or even several months away, but it is crucial to start preparing early for the AP exams rather than later so that you’re not rushing through test preparation in May. Here are some tips you can use to incorporate test preparation and practice into your curriculum throughout the year or semester.