A Bit of Chemistry: The "Basics"

Author: Emma Snodgrass

Today is all about that base, that base (and acid, unlike in the song and its parodies)!

But seriously, today, we are going to learn about acids, bases, and how that knowledge can be applied.

Target audience: High school (or greater) students who are in a general chemistry course and are learning about acid-base chemistry.

Lesson context: This lesson aims to be both an introduction and a review on the basics of acid-base chemistry. It is not, by any means, exhaustive, however.

Goals:

1. Pre-assess what students already know through the activities on the "pre-lesson activity" tab.

2. Discuss what is an acid versus a base (using the "definitions" tab and the subheadings "acids" and "bases").

3. Once the definitions are cemented, learn real-world applications of acid-base chemistry, allowing students to connect the importance of acid-base chemistry to everyday life.

4. Take a post-assessment to ensure understanding has been reached (located under the "post-lesson activity" tab).

*5. Have fun while doing science! (There are some fun videos under the "science fun" tab as well).

Why a Google Site? Google sites are free to use. Plus, their design allows for separation due to the multiple page feature, which comes in handy with topics that have a lot of pieces to them (like acid-base chemistry). This aspect also makes it easy for students to return to the information if they wish to review it. However, it does make it difficult to limit what students do when, as they have access to everything at the same time.