Chemistry

Chemistry

Duration:

  • 2 classes per week (one double)

  • The module rotates every 5 weeks

Aims

The Chemistry programme aims to incorporate the following components:

  • Science for the enquiring mind, or pure science, to include the principles, procedures and concepts of the subject as well as its cultural and historical aspects

  • Science for action, or the applications of science and its interface with technology

  • Science, which is concerned with issues – political, social and economic – of concern to citizens.

This program, in contributing to a high quality education, will emphasise the importance of:

  • Self-directed learning and independent thought

  • A spirit of inquiry, critical thinking, problem solving, self-reliance, initiative and enterprise

  • Preparation for further education, for adult and working life

  • Lifelong learning.



Objectives Upon completion of the programme each student will have had the opportunity to:


  • Complete a project on the History of the Periodic Table accompanied by their own personal theme/idea on elements

  • Deliver a short report on project work to the class

  • Carryout a number of experiments in the Chemical field, for example flames tests and invisible ink

  • Develop teamwork and communication skills through team challenges including chemistry riddles and word puzzles

  • Understand some basic Chemistry which will set a solid foundation for those wishing to take Chemistry as an option for the Leaving Certificate


Teaching and Learning Strategies To include:

  • Formal input by teacher

  • Group work/Pair work in laboratory

  • Use of TV, radio and newspaper articles

  • Use of the Internet

  • Oral presentations by students

  • Design and Poster Construction




Content 5 weeks will cover the history and development of the periodic table along with the knock on effect the development had on humanity and technological progression:

  • Safety in the Laboratory and Chemical Symbols

  • Flame Tests

  • Making your own invisible ink

  • Catalysts: Breaking down H2O2 into Water and Oxygen

  • De-Inking and Recycling Paper

  • Electrolysis: Which Substances are Electrolytes?

  • Team challenges (Riddles and Puzzles linked to Periodic Table)

  • Debates on the development of Radioactive Substances.

  • Poster Presentations



Assessment Appropriate modes of assessment will be chosen to complement the variety of approaches used in implementing the programme and may include all or some of the following:


  • Completion of Practical Workbook questions

  • Written, practical, oral and aural assessment

  • Projects, Portfolios and exhibitions of Work

  • Pupil diary /Log Book recording personal progress

  • Records of skills and competencies attained particularly through demonstration of Laboratory practical skills and completion of Lab reports.


Currently the students are being assessed in terms of poster design and presentation however this is open to change from term to term.




Evaluation:

Teacher and students evaluate this module after the 5 weeks have passed and any changes that need to be made will be noted and the syllabus changed accordingly. As TY is a ‘fluid’ year some parts of the module may be omitted according to time available. Likewise extra topics may be added in connection to school events or theme weeks.


Resources v Practical Workbook “Analyse This!” – Practical approach to Transition Year Science


  • Junior Certificate Science and Leaving Certificate Chemistry Text Books

  • Worksheets, Overhead Transparencies

  • ENFO – Environmental Awareness Organisation, Dame St.

  • Local and School Libraries

  • TV/Newspapers

  • I.T. – Internet and software related to data collection, representation and simulation