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Combining Conceptual Chem with ACS Middle School Labs


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I like the "lead with labs" part of the ACS Middle School Chemistry, but dd could go deeper. I'm thinking using Conceptual Chemistry next year (have it from the library and like it), but beginning each lesson with a related ACS hands on activity, having her do the reading from CC during the week and doing the math check up on Fridays. She's a very check-the-box kind of kid, so this would fit her need for hands on, more science, and predictable routine. She likes the textbook.

 

At a quick glance, I think it would be somewhat do-able for some matching up to about Chapter 11. There are some "think and do" exercises I could sub later if we got that far and she was interested in the consumer chapters at the end. I think the one on medicine would be one she'd like.

 

Has anyone tried this before? Am I missing anything that makes this a bad idea?

 

I've searched the board but key words are hard for this one. There are some nice lists from others who have done the ACS program.

 

http://www.middleschoolchemistry.com/lessonplans/

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  • 2 months later...

Another resource you might find helpful are the video lesson tutorials on the Conceptual Chemistry website. For $15 homeschool students can register and have access to these.

 

 

If you'd prefer an easier, open and go option, I'd look into Spectrum Chemistry.

 

Not entirely sure, but I think the student needs to be solid with Algebra 1 before attempting Spectrum Chemistry...

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Spectrum does want alg 1 first. I wouldn't use it in middle school unless it was a strong STEM student. (My highschoolers are going to use it this fall.)

 

Chemistry in the Community with a big Thames and Kosmos set is my top contender for 7th grade chem this fall. It was written for humanities high school students; concurrent algebra won't be a problem. Science is one of DS/6th's main interests, so the more involved the better.

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 We're just beginning Algebra, and I don't want to spend too many hours a week right now on science. She has too many other interests.

 

Since that's the case (limited time to spend on science), I would suggest NOT going with Conceptual Chemistry or other formal textbook on top of the ACS, but as you have time and as she has the interest, follow bunny trails of interest into chemistry-related topics with interesting supplements -- library books, documentaries, science shows, youtube demos, etc.

 

A few ideas to get you started:

YouTube: Sick Science -- Steve Spangler, chemistry and other science subject videos, all ages

YouTube: Everyday Reactions -- chemistry videos, all ages

University of Nottingham: Periodic Videos -- chemistry videos, middle/high school

YouTube: Crash Course -- high school chemistry videos

GPB: Chemistry & Physics topics -- high school chemistry & physics videos

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