Activity 4 - Visualizing Chemistry

Standard A

A.4.1 When conducting science investigations, ask and answer questions that will help decide the general areas of science being addressed.

I remember doing experiments in my ninth grade chemistry class. We had to come up with questions that we could answer after the experiments were completed. I can’t remember the exact experiments that we conducted but I remember learning about the scientific method. We had to prove and write down the steps we took to complete the entire experiment just like we did in this class (Visualizing Chemistry 105) for the freezing and boiling experiments.

Standard B

B.4.3 Show how the major developments of scientific knowledge in the earth and space, life and environmental, and physical sciences have changed over time.

I specifically remember learning about the Big Bang Theory in junior high. My teacher showed us a video about the Big Bang Theory. This would meet the WI standard for earth and space.

In my ninth grade science class we learned of the different theories that explain why humans and animals occupy the earth. We learned about evolution and how people, animals, and the environment have changed over time.

Standard C

C.4.4 Use simple science equipment safely and effectively, including rulers, balances, graduated cylinders, hand lenses, thermometers, and computers, to collect data relevant to questions and investigations.

I took a botany course in college a couple of years ago and we looked at the cells of plants with a microscope. We looked a variety of plants cells and had to draw what we saw.

In my botany course we also conducted a “Leaf Disk Assay” experiment and in order to complete it, we used graduated cylinders, rulers, and computers to make charts and graphs.

Standard D

D.4.2 Group and/or classify objects and substances based on the properties of earth materials.

We met this standard in Visualizing Chemistry because we identified two elements that belonged to a different group of materials found on earth. We identified and explained how the periodic table is organized. I remember learning this in my high school chemistry class too, but I forgot exactly how the periodic table was organized. Once I reviewed it, the material became more familiar and what I learned in high school started to come back to me.

Standard E

E.4.1 Investigate that earth materials are composed of rocks and soils and correctly use the vocabulary for rocks, minerals, and soils during these investigations.

I took a geology course at UW-Eau Claire (fall 2011). During a lab activity, there were many different types of rocks set out on tables. We had had to identify the different properties of every rock, such as luster, hardness, and cleavage. By doing that, we could identify the name of each rock. I remember learning about the properties of rocks and minerals in my high school science class as well but it wasn’t as in depth as what I learned in my college geology course.

Standard F

F.4.2 Investigate* how organisms, especially plants, respond to both internal cues (the need for water) and external cues (changes in the environment).

In grade school (either 4^th- 6^th grade) we planted flowers in milk cartons. We measured the plants weekly and had the responsibility of watering and making the sure they received enough sun light. We learned the process of photosynthesis and the importance of different environments for different types of plants. I remember enjoying this activity. It was fun to watch the plant grow and see the progress of the growing stem, buds, and flowers.

Standard G

G.4.1 Identify* the technology used by someone employed in a job or position in Wisconsin and explain* how the technology helps.

I took the class Administration for Early Childhood Programs last fall and interviewed a manager of a child care facility in Green Bay, WI. One of the questions I asked was about the safety of children who attend the center. The manager said that technology has come a long way and has helped her center provide strong security for the children. The center uses security cameras that record 24 hours/7 days a week. Also, the center provides a security code system so only parents/guardians who know the code can enter or exit the building.

Standard H

H.4.1 Describe* how science and technology have helped, and in some cases hindered, progress in providing better food, more rapid information, quicker and safer transportation, and more effective health care.

Through my own observations and information learned in a variety of different courses I think that science and technology has helped improve health care by advancements in equipment used, such as lasers for eye surgeries.

Science has helped provide more efficient ways to produce foods. The FDA has created standards that must be met by all companies who sell food which allows consumers to feel safe about what they put into their bodies.

The internet has provided an abundance of information for people world wide.

Science and technology have truly made our lives easier but there seems to be a “dependence on technology” epidemic. Video games have decreased exercising amongst young children and teens and obesity rates have increased. Also, many young children, teens, and adults have more texting/phone conversations rather than real ones.

Science and technology do have negative results, but overall I believe that science and technology advancement has brought more positive results, especially within the health care industry.