Jerry L. Sarquis
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056
Arlyne. M. (Mickey) Sarquis
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Center for Chemistry Education, Miami University–Middletown, Middletown, OH 45042
This article describes the philosophy of using toys to engage students of all ages in chemistry. Three toys, Shrinky Dinks, Happy birds, and Hand Boilers, are featured. For each, the chemical principles behind the toy are described and suggestions for hands-on activities for students are given. There are also some suggestions of how these toys can be integrated into the curriculum
Supplement
A QuickTime video of the process of making shrinking toys.
More Information
Citation
Sarquis, Jerry L.; Sarquis, Arlyne. M. (Mickey). J. Chem. Educ.2005 82 1450.
Keywords
Elementary / Middle School Science; First-Year Undergraduate / General; General Public; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Polymer Chemistry; Public Understanding / Outreach; Solutions / Solvents; Upper-Division Undergraduate
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.