Student teachers at Ball State University are required to complete an in-depth unit long data driven analysis of their student teaching called Learning Assessment Model Project (LAMP). I chose to run the project during the stoichiometry unit. Stoichiometry is a unifying topic of chemistry. It synthesizes previously taught topics of writing chemical formulas, calculating molar masses, performing molar conversions, and balancing chemical reaction equations so that students may apply prior knowledge to its fullest use. Stoichiometry is rigorous and challenging for students. My aim was to make this topic both accessible and useful for my students by relating it to their everyday lives. We chose the stoichiometry unit to run our LAMP project in as most students, except possibly those who have taken integrated chemistry and physics, have no experience with stoichiometry. We wanted to see the direct impact that our teaching had upon students. The following is a summary of the project, its outcome and conclusions drawn from it.
Tag Archives: HLP 10
Authentic Assessment: Solution Exam Practical
I always enjoy any activity that involves authentic laboratory work, so when it came time for the solutions unit in Chemistry I, I decided to allow students a choice for their end of unit assessment. Either assessment was worth the same number of points, but there would be an option of either completing a traditional paper and pencil test, or performing a lab practical exam that involved making actual solutions. A rubric was constructed to grade the outcome of the practical: Solution Lab Practical Rubric as well as a modified testing instrument: Solutions Practical Exam
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Problem-Based Learning: Unit Plan
Students complain that school isn’t relatable. Employers complain that we don’t generate problem solvers. Problem Based Learning answers the complexities of both of these issues in one fell swoop, all the while being aligned to state curriculum standards.
Alexandria received a grant of $335,000 from the state of Indiana as part of the Hardest Hit Fund Blight Elimination Program to help with the demolition of eyesore properties around town. The question remains: was this a good deal for the city? A slideshow outlining the entire project may be viewed at: https://www.emaze.com/@AFRWRLTW/razed-and-rising
Factor Label Conversions Using Marzano Techniques
Introducing and using conversions and the factor label system in the science classroom are traditionally done through lecture based activities. Student engagement in this topic is usually limited to checks for understanding via homework and assessment on quizzes and tests. Utilizing Marzano’s kinesthetic technique, our goal was to physically engage students in groups while simultaneously performing a formative assessment of understanding of these topics.
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