Chemistry Solutions

Getting Young Students Excited about Science

As an elementary school teacher, have you considered teaching chemistry to your students? Have you heard about You Be The Chemist? Here are a few of my favorite activities that I do with my 5th graders — and why my students love them. By Rebecca Field

On Being a Head of Department

This article contains suggestions for being a proactive Department Chair and some philosophical reasons for helping department colleagues to grow professionally; based on the authors experience as a Department Chair in three different schools over the course of his 41-year teaching career. Included are assorted references that may also provide additional insights into being a Head of Department (HOD). By David Byrum

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Reflections of a Mentor Teacher

A veteran teacher reflects on the opportunity to be a mentor teacher for a young intern during the 2014-2015 school year. He describes the relationship as a valuable learning experience for both himself and the intern. This article was written to encourage all veteran teachers to consider hosting an intern for a school year.

Managing Chemical Wastes in the High School Lab

This article is a quick reference on chemical disposal for high school chemistry teachers. It is not meant to be all-inclusive or the “last word,” but a solid starting point for teachers as they determine proper disposal methods for their lab waste. By Jenny Bishoff

Finding a New Element

A teacher describes her transition from teaching chemistry in a university to teaching in a high school setting. Learn how she adjusted her approach to teaching, and discovered a new respect for secondary teachers.

It Takes a Teaching Community

With the end of another school year is in sight, Chemistry Solutions Editor, Emily Bones, reflects on her first year back in the classroom and the unique cycle of teaching. She encourages teachers to take time to recharge during the upcoming summer break and also rethink their plans for the next school year. The AACT website and resource library are great starting points for teachers of chemistry who are considering a different teaching approach or are looking for new inspiration in their lessons.

Simulation Test Full Width

Dave Mick has taught students ranging in age from eight to 80. He has been an alternative high school counselor and a secondary science teacher but has spent most of his career teaching all subjects in elementary classrooms. His nonacademic interests include cross-country skiing, mountaineering, and martial arts. Dave completed three degrees with eight different majors and concentrations.