With recent advances in the achievable resolution of electron microscopes, a direct method for demonstrating the atomic structure of solid crystals is available. Microscopy Camp was designed to introduce and reinforce current, scientifically acceptable concepts of the atomic structure of solid crystals. Ten middle school students attended Microscopy Camp for two days in August of 2005 at the University of Minnesota. The campers synthesized magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles, characterized the particles by visual inspection and light microscopy, and participated in the characterization of their particles using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). A pre-camp and post-camp assessment was made to gain insight into students’ developing concepts regarding the atomic structure of solid crystals; qualitative results indicate improved post-camp understanding. The second goal of the program was to provide an invaluable experience to middle and high school science student teachers, who were integral to the design and implementation of this program. Finally, the success of Microscopy Camp 2005 critically depended upon the combined expertise of the chemist and science educator, and insights regarding establishing such a partnership and the design of the program are discussed.
Supplement
Instructions for the students and notes for the instructor are available.
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.
For journals in other fields of chemistry visit ACS Publications.
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