Grade 12 Rate of Chemical Reactions

In a previous conversation, John confessed that rates of reactions and chemical equilibrium are some of his favourite sections to teach. His love for this section came across strongly in our discussions.

John brought in ice, warm water, dish washing liquid and hydrogen peroxide to demonstrate a low cost experiment which shows how temperature can affect rate of reaction.

He later added manganese dioxide as a catalyst but said that chicken livers or potassium iodide would also work. While we watched the reactions, we discussed various teaching methods we could use to inspire interest in chemistry.

It is such a joy talking to someone so passionate about his work. Often, as teachers, we get bogged down by all the other things and we forget the original joy we felt in inspiring our learners and igniting flames. My challenge for you this week is to teach one lesson with the same enthusiasm and sense of wonder as you did when you taught it for the first time. Remember that teaching is a magical process.

Anyway, let's move on to what was on the slides.

Mindset Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2wj6xPk204&list=PLOaNAKtW5HLQKYasZKPZSuXssMfM5pspL&index=17

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZpKIcuxY9M&list=PLOaNAKtW5HLTQE8dQBt8iKuzuVLS2XqQW&index=13

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDKXVuL9xYM&index=5&list=PLOaNAKtW5HLQ-6rAHrY_nTlpkdJBP_Wcd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDKXVuL9xYM&list=PLOaNAKtW5HLTtIy6xn5dluwiihIeZ5AOn&index=6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZpKIcuxY9M&index=13&list=PLOaNAKtW5HLTQE8dQBt8iKuzuVLS2XqQW

John's 4 Pressure Points:

• Chemical formulae & balancing equations
  
• Scientific Method - variables, hypothesis
  
• Graphs
  
• Not learning the theory - Collision theory

Good ideas for teaching this section:

• Start with the macro - demonstrate different rates
  
• Explain observations using a microscopic mode - collision theory- need to get learners to draw or watch simulations animations
  
• Record observations as graphs & interpret graphs of different reactions - must develop skill

John's 5 Point Teaching Strategy:

• Demonstrate different rates
  
• Introduce Collision theory
  
• Calculate rates - record data in graphs
  
• Given learners a chance to plan an investigation of the factors that affect rates
  
• Consolidate with worksheets & exam type questions

Next week, all schools will be on holiday. This means we won't have any shows until the week after. Until then, happy teaching!