Boiling, Bubbling, Oozing & Exploding

Boiling, Bubbling, Oozing & Exploding: Explorations in Chemistry
2006-2007 Trillium Charter School Quarter 1

Instructor: Tobie
E-mail: trillium.science@gmail.com

Course Description:
For those who have dreamed of concocting disgusting potions in dark metal cauldrons. We will be studying elements of chemistry by mixing, stirring, boiling and observing everyday materials in a variety of states and combinations. Conducting experiments, making models and researching substances will all be part of our chemical journey. Literacy and art will be important elements of this course.


Class Objectives:
Skill Goals: Students will become familiar with the structure of inquiry science (including free exploration, systematic observation, and controlled experimentation), make objective observations and comparisons, develop a science mindset of wondering, and take risks in exploring explanations for their observations. Students will develop questioning skills and select investigable questions. They will learn to take notes and record data from observations and experiments, and to communicate their findings with tables and graphs. They will be introduced to the concept of test and outcome variables, planning an experiment, and controlling these variables. Students will use different strategies in reading non-fiction text, write a short non-fiction paper, and explore science topics through poetry and art. Yes, there will be homework!
Content topics: particulate nature of matter, phases and phase change, kinetic molecular theory, sublimation, density, physical & chemical changes, matter, and maybe more…

Course Structure:
We will star with an in-depth investigation of dry ice. This will be a vehicle for developing wonder, curiosity, and solid “scientist mindset” skills. We will continue by exploring labs that demonstrate different principles in chemistry, or continue to build skills needed for a working scientist (measurement, experiment planning, etc.). Readings & response (through writing, art, and poetry) will be regular parts of class.
Code of Conduct:
All Trillium students and staff are accountable for respecting themselves and each other as laid out in the Constitution. This class will reflect the constitution and our right to have a respectful learning environment. As an instructor, I will provide engaging, hand-on/minds-on learning activities; I will also be open to feedback from students in terms of their needs/ideas for the class. In the learning environment I have these specific expectations that are non-negotiable:
• In whole group sharing one person speaks at once while other people respectfully listen.
• People treat each other with courtesy and respect and remain open to new ideas.
• Students are safe and respectful at all times.
• Students should be on time to class.
• No cursing.
• Students should come prepared (with a pencil and a positive attitude!)
I understand if students are unable to follow these expectations and will be available to sign add/drop forms as needed. By choosing to attend this class, I assume these expectations are accepted!

Homework and Grading: Students will have a notebook of readings and labs. There will be a few main projects: the notebook of completed labs, an essay on states of matter, an art project, a science poem, reading notes, and a final presentation of their inquiry project. The syllabus is subject to change. Check my web site for the update & when assignments are due. There will be homework assignments most days (some time will be given in class to finish).

The following is subject to change….
Date Focus
(exact content many be kept secret to keep the mystery alive)
11/28 Scientist’s Mindset
11/30 Intro to Particulate Model
12/5 (Recorded) free explorations
12/7 Systematic Observations
12/12 Classifying information
12/14 Controlled experiments
1/2 Ivestigable Questions
1/4 Designing an experiment
1/9 Individual Inquiry experiments
1/11 Presenting your results
1/16 Presentations of Inquiry project
1/18 Reactions
1/23 Reactions
1/25 TBA
1/30 TBA
2/1 Reflections, etc. Edible chemistry?