YOUTH INITIATIVE HIGH SCHOOL
Waldorf Initiative in Viroqua, Wisconsin, USA
COURSES AND CLASSES
11th Grade Chemistry
Instructor: Howard Duckman
February 26 thru March 16
The most powerful organizing concept in Chemistry is periodicity, the pattern of repeating chemical properties, which is represented by the periodic table. Two facets were known during the formation of the periodic table; different atomic masses such as the difference between lead and aluminum and combining capacities such as one atom of sodium with one atom of chlorine. Decades later additional relationships of ionization energy, boiling point, molar volumes were found. In addition to the general relationships of the periodic table several elements are scheduled for additional study. These elements are hydrogen and the hydrogen economy, calcium and its effect on human and soil equilibriums and carbon with an introduction to Organic Chemistry. The class is expected to clean the chemistry room after each laboratory, Finally, every class member must have a project based on an element of the periodic table.
Week One
Feb. 26 Introduction to the periodic table
Feb. 27 Discussion of Alkali and Alkali Earth Metals
Feb. 28 Discussion of the carbon atom in organic chemistry and biochemistry.
March 1 Discussion of Noble Gases and Halogens
March 2 Assignment of a class project and laboratory and work on main lesson book
Week Two
March 5 Review oxidation and reduction equations and electron theory.
March 6 Further review of oxidation and reduction and an experiment.
March 7 Transition elements, and work on student projects and main lesson book
March 8 Non Metals discussion and discussion of trends in the Table such as Ionization energy.
March 9 Discussion of molecular geometry and work on the student project.
Week Three
March 12 Summary of Periodic Table
March 13 Presentation of student projects and work on main lesson book
March 14 Presentation of student projects and work on main lesson book
March 15 Final Exam
March 16 Hand in Main lesson book