Practicing computational skills in an introductory chemistry class can often become tedious and repetitive. The scenario presented was developed to provide an opportunity to practice mole conversions, empirical formula calculations, use of significant figures, and logical cause and effect thinking skills as a team or as an individual, and to capture student interest. The practice is easily evaluated by reviewing the solution of the mystery. Over a period of ten or more years of classroom use, the students have always been intrigured by the scenario and been successful in deciphering the mystery and in mastery of the targeted skills.
Supplement
A PowerPoint file presents the data and accompanying information in
slide format, prompting students to solve the mystery.
The "Chemistry Teacher Connection" (CTC) is especially for high school chemistry teachers. For only $40/year, it offers an online-only subscription to CLIC along with membership in the Division of Chemical Education, normally $65/year. CTC subscribers receive access to all articles and supplements from 1996 through the current issue.
Through special arrangement with the ACS, JCE High School CLIC is now able to provide subscribers with online access to Chemical & Engineering News articles that have been selected specifically for secondary science instructors and their students.
Occasionally, collections of JCE back issues become available for donation to individual teachers, schools, or libraries. JCE matches collections with interested recipients. Recipients pay shipping costs or pick up the collection.