Course Profile   Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparation, Catholic

 

Unit 1:  Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry

Time:  24 hours (1440 minutes)

 

Activity 1 | Activity 2 | Activity 3 | Activity 4

Unit Description

In the first cluster of this unit, students examine the nature of the atmosphere by identifying its major and minor components, recognize the importance of the atmosphere in supporting life on earth, and determine the relevancy of gases in their lives. As informed responsible citizens, the students reflect on how the use of technological products can enhance the quality of life and contribute to the common good. They explain the intermolecular forces found in different states of matter and further describe the gaseous state using kinetic molecular theory. Students describe natural phenomena and technological products associated with gases.

In the second cluster, students use experimental data to develop the mathematical relationships for Boyle’s law, Charles’ law, and Gay-Lussac’s law and incorporate the knowledge of these laws to develop the combined gas law equation. Students use Dalton’s law of partial pressure to solve numerical problems that involve the collection of a gas by the downward displacement of water. Students use research to identify technological products and the corresponding safety concerns associated with the use of compressed gases, e.g., propane tanks in the home and workplace.

In the third cluster, students state Avogadro’s hypothesis and demonstrate an understanding of Avogadro’s number, the mole, and molar mass. Students experimentally determine the molar volume of a gas and solve quantitative problems involving the ideal gas law.

In the fourth cluster, students describe technological advances and applications of gases in other disciplines, examine gas related environmental issues affecting society, and explain Canadian initiatives to improve air quality. Students plan, organize, and participate in the “Gases and Life” conference. Throughout the unit, students recognize their role as stewards of the earth in addressing the environmental concerns and issues relating to Canada’s atmosphere.

(Note: Expectation QC1.01 is addressed in this unit and revisited in Unit 3: Quantities in Chemical Reactions. In addition, expectation GA2.05 will not be covered in Unit 1, but addressed in Unit 3 along with other stoichiometry problems).

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Expectations

Assessment

Task

1.  Gases and the Atmosphere

1.1  The Atmosphere

1.2  Explaining Properties of Gases

1.3  Introducing End-of-Unit Task

300 min.

GAV.01, GAV.03, GA1.01, GA1.02, GA1.06, GA3.01, SIS.06

CGE1d,i; 2e; 3b; 7d,i,j

K, C

 

 

 

 

MC

- Concept Map and class discussion

- Reflection (atmosphere)

- Poster of Natural Phenomena and Technological Products

2.  Gas Laws

2.1  Boyle’s Law

2.2  Charles’ Law

2.3  Gay-Lussac’s Law

2.4  Combined and Dalton’s Laws

2.5  Gas Law Game

2.6  Consumer Pamphlet

2.7  Preparing End-of-Unit Task

540 min.

GAV.01, GAV.02, GAV.03, GA1.03, GA1.04, GA2.01, GA2.02, GA2.03, GA2.04, GA3.03, SIS.01, SIS.02, SIS.03, SIS.04, SIS.05, SIS.07, SIS.08

CGE1d; 2e; 3b,c,d,e

K, I

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

MC

- Experiments:

- Boyle’s Law

- Charles’ Law

- Gay-Lussac’s Law

 

- Problem solving and game

 

- Consumer pamphlet and presentation

3.  Avogadro and Molar Calculations

3.1  Avogadro’s Law

3.2  Mole and Molar Mass

3.3  End of Unit Task

3.4  Molar Volume

3.5  Ideal Gas Law

375 min.

GAV.01, GAV.02, GA1.05, QC1.01, GA2.04, GA2.06, SIS.05, SIS.07, SIS.09

CGE3c; 4f; 5f,g

K

 

 

 

I

- Counting Activity

 

 

 

- Problem solving

 

 

- Molar volume lab

4.  Gases and Life

4.1  Gases in Other Disciplines

4.2  Air Quality

225 min.

GAV.03, GA3.02, GA3.04, SIS.10

CGE 1d,e; 2e,3b,c,d,e; 4f; 5e; 7a,b,d,i,j

K, I, C,

 

MC

- Conference:  Exhibits and Displays

 

- Air Quality seminars

 

Activity 1:  Gases and the Atmosphere

Time:  300 minutes

Description

Students examine the nature of the atmosphere by identifying its major and minor components. Students recognize the importance of the atmosphere in supporting life on Earth, and determine the relevancy of gases in their lives. As informed responsible citizens, the students reflect on how the use of technological products can enhance the quality of life and contribute to the common good. They explain the intermolecular forces found in different states of matter and further describe the gaseous state using the kinetic molecular theory. Lastly, students describe natural phenomena and technological products associated with gases.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry

Overall Expectations

GAV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the laws that govern the behaviour of gases;

GAV.03 - describe how knowledge of gases has helped to advance technology, and how such technological advances have led to a better understanding of environmental phenomena and issues.

Specific Expectations

GA1.01 - explain different states of matter in terms of the forces between atoms, molecules, and ions;

GA1.02 - describe the gaseous state, using kinetic molecular theory, in terms of degree of disorder and types of motion of atoms and molecules;

GA1.06 - identify the major and minor components of the atmosphere;

GA3.01 - describe natural phenomena and technological products associated with gases.

Scientific Investigation Skills

SIS.06 - compile and interpret data or other information gathered from print, laboratory, and electronic sources, including Internet sites, to research a topic, solve a problem, or support an opinion.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE1d - develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity, and the common good;

CGE1i - integrates faith with life;

CGE2e - uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE3b - creates, adapts, evaluates new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE7d - promotes the sacredness of life;

CGE7i - respects the environment and uses resources wisely;

CGE7j - contributes to the common good.

Planning Notes

·         Air pollution and environmental issues associated with air quality are introduced in Activity 1 to stress their significance and to provide a focus for the end-of-unit task, “Gases and Life” conference found in Activity 4.

·         Photos of atmospheric phenomena, e.g., Aurora Borealis, and information on various forms of air pollution, e.g., smog, acid rain, global warming, or ozone layer, should be gathered in advance to provide students with an appreciation of the Earth’s atmosphere and the role of gases in the universe. These should be used throughout the unit, whenever appropriate.

·         The end-of-unit task for this Unit is a conference, called “Gases and Life”, consisting of student workshops/seminars on Canadian initiatives to improve air quality, and displays/exhibits of applications of gases in their lives. The exhibits should display students’ products developed in Activities 1.1 (poster), 2.6 (pamphlet), and 4.1(newspaper flyer). The student groups for
Activities 1.1, 2.6, and 4.1 should remain the same throughout the Unit and new groups with specific assigned roles are established for the student workshops/seminars (Activity 4.2). Students should be provided with ample opportunities to research their topics throughout the Unit so that they have sufficient time to prepare and present the finished products for the conference. The time allocated for this conference is 450 minutes, of which 225 minutes is evenly distributed over Activities 1, 2, and 3. The remaining time, (225 minutes) is used in Activity 4.

·         Teachers are encouraged to use local resources available from their communities and environmental agencies, and locate web sites directly by researching air quality for their particular area, e.g., www.airqualityontario.com.

·         Prepare all materials and equipment as required, e.g., readings, photos, handouts, etc.

·         A barometer would be useful for measuring atmospheric pressure. If possible, invite a weather specialist to discuss how barometric readings are used in weather forecasting.

·         Make arrangements to have the students visit the school Library/Resource Centre as required. If it is not available, collect resources for classroom use or arrange Internet access through your computer department.

·         Review the ethical use of the Internet with the students.

·         It is recommended that a Unit test be given before Activity 4.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Grade 10 Science: Chemistry and Earth and Space Science

·         Grade 9 Science: Chemistry and Earth and Space Science

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Activity 1.1:  The Atmosphere

The teacher:

·         arranges groups and instructs students to make a concept map for gases using the possible headings: definitions, properties, examples, and uses/applications;

·         reviews briefly the formation of the universe outlining the importance of gases;

·         reads in unison with the class A Prayer of Gratitude (Appendix A);

·         introduces Earth’s atmosphere as a mixture of gases and identifies the major and minor components of the atmosphere by providing students with atmospheric composition data;

·         leads a class discussion on the importance of clean air to life on Earth;

·         assists students in identifying possible air pollutants and in recognizing environmental issues in Canada and world-wide related to air quality;

·         instructs students to read passages from Scripture, the Psalms especially, and write a reflection on the importance of the atmosphere to life on Earth;

·         introduces the end-of-unit task, the “Gases and Life” conference, to be held in Activity 4;

·         groups students in pairs and assigns a poster presentation which describes a natural phenomena, e.g., geysers, volcanic eruptions, or a technological product, e.g., rocket engine, pressurized tanks, carbonated drinks, or air bags, associated with gases. The poster should include the following: the specific gases involved (identified as major or minor components of the atmosphere), a labelled diagram of the natural phenomena or technological product, and a written summary describing the chosen topic;

·         conferences with groups to ensure their poster topics and content are relevant and appropriate;

·         assesses the poster and the presentation;

·         instructs students to write a reflection on one of the technological products described commenting on whether its use enhances quality of life and contributes to the common good.

Students:

·         brainstorm, in their assigned groups, to create a concept map for gases;

·         read the prayer, reflect, and comment on the importance of air to life on Earth;

·         identify and record the major and minor components of the atmosphere;

·         list air pollutants and identify the environmental issues in Canada and world-wide related to air quality;

·         read the passages from Scripture that make reference to wind and air (e.g., Genesis 8:1; Exodus 10:13; Numbers 11:31; Proverbs 11:29; Ecclesiastes 1:6; John 3:8; Acts 2:2; 1Kings 19:11-13);

·         write a reflection on the importance of the atmosphere to life on Earth;

·         choose, research, and gather information on an approved topic for their poster;

·         submit their poster for assessment and present their work to the class;

·         write a reflection on one of the technological products described commenting on whether its use enhances quality of life and contributes to the common good.

Activity 1.2:  Explaining the Properties of Gases

The teacher:

·         reviews the terms atoms, molecules, and ions;

·         provides samples of solids, liquids, and gases for visual comparison and instructs students, working in pairs, to compare and contrast the properties of the three states of matter in chart form and asks them to hypothesize why gases are different from liquids and solids;

·         defines kinetic energy and reviews the postulates of the Kinetic Molecular Theory, (KMT);

·         leads a class discussion on the role of attractive forces between particles;

·         defines pressure using familiar examples, e.g., tire pumps, balloons, etc., demonstrates how to measure atmospheric pressure using a barometer, and describes other devices to measure pressure of enclosed gases, e.g., gauges, manometers;

·         introduces and states the SI units for volume, temperature, and pressure;

·         directs students to use KMT to describe the gaseous state;

·         assigns and assesses a student summary sheet describing the gaseous state in terms of intermolecular forces, degree of disorder, and types of motion of atoms and molecules explaining why gases are different from liquids and solids.

Students:

·         record the definitions of atoms, molecules, and ions and provide examples;

·         prepare a chart to compare and contrast the properties of the three states of matter;

·         brainstorm possible reasons for differences between the states of matter;

·         define kinetic energy and summarize the postulates of KMT;

·         through class discussions, explain the different states of matter in terms of the forces between atoms, molecules, and ions;

·         record definitions of relevant terms and units for pressure, volume, and temperature;

·         use KMT to explain the gaseous state;

·         write and submit a summary describing the gaseous state using kinetic molecular theory and explain the different attractive forces in solids, liquids, and gases.

Activity 1.3:  Introduction of the End-of-Unit Task

The teacher:

·         presents the workshop/seminar component of the conference involving the Canadian initiatives to improve air quality;

·         assigns roles, e.g., government, environment specialists, etc., directs students to work on their end-of-unit task, Activity 4.2, and conferences with each research team to ensure they remain on task.

Students:

·         meet throughout the unit to research and conference with each other and the teacher;

·         work collaboratively to gather information for the assigned task.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         The poster may be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Communication, and Making Connections using a rubric. (GA1.06, GA3.01, SIS.06)

·         The summary sheet may be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding and Communication using a marking scheme. (GA1.01, GA1.02)

Accommodations

·         See the Course Overview for general accommodations.

·         Possible enrichment activities:

·         Investigate and write a report on the role of the atmosphere in determining the weather.

·         Research the reactions involved when an air bag is deployed and explain how they involve oxidation and reduction.

·         Identify the major air pollutants and their sources in your community.

·         Explain what happens when a liquid boils.

·         Apply the KMT to explain the compressibility and diffusion of gases.

·         Explore the use and symbolism of air and wind in Scripture.

Resources

Dunlop, Stewart and Michael Jackson. Understanding Our Environment. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1991. ISBN 0-19-540770-9

Gillespie, R., D. Humphreys, N. Baird, and E. Robinson. Chemistry. Massachusetts: Allyn and Bacon, Inc., 1989. ISBN 0-205-11795-3

Rayner-Canham, G., et al. Chemistry: A Second Course. Don Mills: Addison-Wesley Publishers.1989.
ISBN 0-201-17885-0

Whitman, R., E. Zinck, and R. Nalepa. Chemistry Today 1. Scarborough: Prentice-Hall Canada Inc., 1988. ISBN 0-13-129306-0

Internet Sites

Air Quality Ontario  – http://www.airqualityontario.com

Chemistry Visualized: The World of Physical Chemistry
 – http://www-wilson.ucsd.edu/educationeducation.html

Church Documents  – http://www.vatican.va

David Suzuki Foundation  – http://www.davidsuzuki.org

Environment Canada’s Green Lane  – http://www.ec.gc.ca

Encyclopedia of the Atmospheric Environment  – http://www.doc.mmu.ac.uk/aric/eae/enter.htm

Kinetic Molecular Theory and Gas Laws Table of Contents
 – http://dbhs.wvusd.k12.ca.us/GasLaw/KMT-Gas-Laws.html

Videotapes

Chemistry of the Environment. British Columbia: Davis Film and Video Productions, 1993. 34 minutes.

 

Activity 2:  Gas Laws

Time:  540 minutes

Description

Through lab inquiries, students develop the quantitative and graphical relationships among the pressure, volume, and temperature of ideal gases. Students use the data collected in these inquiries to develop the mathematical relationships for Boyle’s law, Charles’ law, and Gay-Lussac’s law. They incorporate the knowledge of these laws to develop the combined gas law equation. Students use Dalton’s law of partial pressure to solve numerical problems that involve the collection of gas by the downward displacement of water. Through research, students identify technological products and the corresponding safety concerns associated with the use of compressed gases, e.g., propane tanks in the home and workplace. As informed Catholic citizens, students reflect on the use of technological products in enhancing the quality of life.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry

Overall Expectations

GAV.01 - demonstrates an understanding of the laws that govern the behaviour of gases;

GAV.02 - investigate through experimentation the relationship among pressure, volume and temperature of a gas and solve problems involving quantity of a substance in moles, molar masses and volume, and the gas laws;

GAV.03 - describe how knowledge of gases has helped to advance technology, and how such technological advances have led to a better understanding of environmental phenomena and issues.

Specific Expectations

GA1.03 - describe the quantitative relationships that exist among the following variables for an ideal gas: pressure, volume, temperature, and amount of substance;

GA1.04 - explain Dalton’s law of partial pressures;

GA2.01 - use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases;

GA2.02 - use and interconvert appropriate units to express pressure and temperature;

GA2.03 - determine through experimentation the quantitative and graphical relationships among the pressure, volume, and temperature of an ideal gas;

GA2.04 - solve quantitative problems involving the following gas laws: Charles’ law, Boyle’s law, Gay-Lussac’s law, Dalton’s law of partial pressures, the ideal gas law;

GA3.03 - identify technological products and safety concern associated with compressed gases.

Science Investigation Skills

SIS.01 - demonstrate an understanding of safe laboratory practices by selecting and applying appropriate techniques for handling, storing, and disposing of laboratory materials, and using appropriate personal protection (e.g., safety goggles);

SIS.02 - select appropriate instruments and use them effectively and accurately in collecting observations and data (e.g., use a balance to accurately measure the mass of a precipitate);

SIS.03 - demonstrate the skills required to plan and carry out investigations using laboratory equipment safely, effectively, and accurately;

SIS.04 - demonstrate knowledge of emergency laboratory procedures;

SIS.05 - select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical, and linguistic modes of representation to communicate scientific ideas, plans, and experimental results;

SIS.07 - communicate the procedures and results of investigations for specific purposes by displaying evidence and information, either in writing or using a computer, in various forms, including flow charts, tables, graphs, and laboratory;

SIS.08 - express the results of any calculation involving experimental data to the appropriate number of decimal places or significant figures.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE1d - develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity, and the common good;

CGE2e - uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE3b - creates, adapts, and evaluates new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE3c - thinks reflectively and creatively to evaluate situations and solve problems;

CGE3d - makes decisions in light of gospel values with an informed moral conscience;

CGE3e - adopts a holistic approach to life by integrating learning from various subject areas and experience.

Planning Notes

·         As laboratory experiments are performed for the first time in this activity, the importance of safety, the format of lab reports and/or Data Books should be discussed with the students.

·         Homework should be assigned to provide enough opportunity to develop student knowledge and problem-solving skills since the gas laws will not be revisited until university. Students should be encouraged to set goals in order to improve their individual problem-solving skills.

·         Due to safety concerns, dry ice should be used for teacher demonstrations only.

·         There is available a variety of equipment to illustrate the gas laws, including syringes, probes and sensors that interface with computers, and overhead-projector, teacher-demonstration kits. References for experiments and equipment can be found in the Resources section of this profile.

·         It is recommended that a variety of equipment be used for these experiments. For example, if computer interface probes or sensors are available, one computer station could be set up for each of the gas law activities so that students can gain experience using this technology. If an Absolute Zero apparatus is not available, teachers could supply students with dry lab data for Gay-Lussac’s law.

·         There are a number of different computer simulations available with activities on the gas laws. These programs might be useful if a student was absent or if the above apparatus is not available;

·         Teachers are encouraged to use graphing calculators or appropriate graphing software.

·         The self-discovery method used in this activity/profile might require modifications depending on time limitations and the needs of particular classes.

·         Prepare sets of gas law problems, answer sheets, and prizes for the game in Activity 2.5.

·         Prepare the paper-and-pencil quiz on all gas law problems for Activity 2.5.

·         The research and assessment criteria for the consumer product pamphlet should be introduced in advance to allow students sufficient time to research and produce the final product.

·         In this Activity, the students should be provided with 75 minutes to work on their air quality seminars for the end-of-unit task (Activity 2.7).

·         Review the ethical use of the Internet with students.

·         Make arrangements to have the students visit the school Library/Resource Centre as required. If it is not available, collect resources for classroom use or arrange Internet access through your computer department.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Grade 10 Science: Chemistry and Earth and Space Science

·         Grade 9 Science: Chemistry

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Activity 2.1:  Boyle’s Law

The teacher:

·         reviews safety in the laboratory;

·         introduces the consumer product pamphlet - Activity 2.6;

·         instructs students on the format of a Data Book for observations and calculations and informs students that lab and inquiry skills are being assessed;

·         provides lab procedures for an experiment demonstrating Boyle’s law using the computer interface and traditional equipment. Sample experiments can be found in most lab manuals.

·         reviews the concept of dependent and independent variables;

·         ensures that a working barometer is available to determine the atmospheric pressure, if needed;

·         directs students to prepare a chart in their Data Books with the following headings: volume (V), pressure (P), 1/V, and PxV, perform the experiment, complete the chart, analyse all data, and compare their experimental results with their peers;

·         conferences with individual students as they make their measurements and assesses their completed charts and their lab skills;

·         instructs students to plot graphs of V vs. P, and 1/V vs. P, using a graphing calculator or appropriate graphing software, if possible;

·         uses the class data to develop the mathematical relationship for Boyle’s law;

·         uses relevant examples to demonstrate the proper procedure for solving problems and reviews the proper use of significant figures in expressing a numerical answer;

·         assigns and takes up problems related to Boyle’s law;

·         arranges the class into groups of four and distributes the apparatus and instructions needed to make a “Cartesian Diver” (1 empty plastic pop bottle (1L) + lid + 1 eyedropper). The groups make the model and explain “how it works” using Boyle’s law and discuss practical examples that illustrate Boyle’s law e.g., inflating a tire, using a fire extinguisher, scuba diving, and ear popping with changes in altitude, etc.

Students:

·         read the assigned experiment and prepare the chart in their Data Books;

·         working in pairs, safely conduct the lab investigation, record all observations, analyse all data and compare their experimental results with their peers;

·         plot the graphs, using a graphing calculator, if available; participate in the class discussion to develop the mathematical relationship for Boyle’s law; and solve problems related to Boyle’s law expressing their numerical answers to the appropriate number of significant figures;

·         work cooperatively in a group to construct the Cartesian diver, arrive at a group explanation of the “Cartesian Diver,” and record practical examples that illustrate Boyle’s law in their notebook.

Activity 2.2:  Charles’ Law

The teacher:

·         sets up a demonstration of a balloon in warm water and ice cold water, and uses the results to discuss the qualitative relationship between temperature and volume.

·         chooses an experiment to illustrate the quantitative relationship of Charles’ law and sets up a computer lab station, if an interface is available;

·         describes the lab procedure, making sure students are aware of the proper handling of equipment;

·         directs students to read the lab procedure, perform the experiment, and submit a lab report;

·         assigns appropriate questions (found in lab manuals) that direct the students to plot a volume, temperature graph, extrapolate to Absolute Zero, and determine the mathematical relationship for Charles’ law;

·         conferences with students, while they plot their graphs and answer questions, to provide feedback on their development of the mathematical relationship for Charles’ law;

·         assigns and corrects practice problems related to Charles’ law;

·         uses the examples of  popping popcorn, hot air balloons, aerosol cans, and anesthetic gas to introduce and discuss practical applications.

Students:

·         read and complete the experiment as outlined by the teacher following proper safety guidelines;

·         complete the graph of temperature and volume and extrapolate to find the temperature for V=0;

·         answer questions to determine the mathematical relationship between Absolute temperature and volume; individually, complete and submit the lab report.

·         solve mathematical problems related to Charles’ law and express their answers to the appropriate number of significant figures; participate in class discussion of applications of Charles’ law summarizing examples in their notebook.

Activity 2.3:  Gay-Lussac’s Law

The teacher:

·         reviews the previous two laws;

·         to illustrate and discuss the qualitative relationship between pressure and temperature, uses a variety of  demonstrations, e.g., places a beaker of warm water in a vacuum pump and gradually reduces the pressure until the water boils or quickly inverts a steaming pop into a tray of cold water;

·         directs students to prepare a temperature, pressure chart in their Data Books;

·         sets up an Absolute Zero apparatus or an appropriate computer interface to demonstrate Gay-Lussac’s law, and assigns students to prepare water samples at various temperatures for the demonstration;

·         conducts the demonstration and instructs students to record the temperature and corresponding pressure in their charts;

Note: If an Absolute Zero apparatus is not available teachers should supply students with dry lab data;

·         directs students to plot the graph of pressure versus temperature, extrapolate to Absolute Zero, and determine the mathematical relationship for Gay-Lussac’s law, if graphing calculators are available, students can verify the linear relationship of their hand plotted graphs;

·         directs students to peer share their graphs;

·         conferences with each student as they develop the mathematical relationship of Gay-Lussac’s law;

·         instructs students to submit their Data Books to assess their problem solving and graphing skills.

Students:

·         participate in the class discussion of the demonstration(s);

·         prepare a suitable observation chart in their Data Books, and record the pressure of the gas for each different temperature, graph all data and verify their results using a graphing calculator;

·         peer share their results to determine any discrepancies and sources of error;

·         arrive at the mathematical relationship for Gay-Lussac’s law;

·         individually, submit their Data Books to be assessed.

Activity 2.4:  Combined Gas Law and Dalton’s Law of Partial Pressures

The teacher:

·         uses the example of weather balloons to demonstrate how changes in both temperature and pressure will affect the volume of a fixed amount of gas;

·         develops the combined gas law using the mathematical relationships from Boyle’s law, Charles’ law, and Gay-Lussac’s law;

·         provides examples and assigns problems using the combined gas law;

·         demonstrates the collection of a sample gas using the downward displacement of water, and uses an example of a combined gas law problem that gives the pressure of a gas collected over water and discusses the need to correct the pressure for the presence of water vapour;

·         introduces Dalton’s law of partial pressures;

·         assigns related problems and directs students to peer assess the word problems.

Students:

·         participate in developing the combined gas law equation;

·         solve combined gas law problems and use Dalton’s law of partial pressures to correct for pressure when gases are collected by the downward displacement of water, and peer assess assigned problems.

Activity 2.5:  Gas Laws Game: Who wants to pass the gas law test?

The teacher:

·         prepares five different sets of problems and assembles three stations for each problem set for a total of 15 stations, and sets up simple answer sheets for each set of numerical problems with a point system that increases in value with the level of difficulty of the problem;

·         arranges students in pairs to move through all five different stations;

·         instructs students that the purpose of the game is to improve problem solving skills, encourages students to answer as many questions as possible in the given time line (4-6 minutes per station);

·         runs the game and tallies all the points at the end of the game and arranges prizes for the winners;

·         prepares, administers, and assesses a paper-and-pencil quiz on all gas laws.

Students:

·         working in pairs move from Station #1 to #5;

·         work as a team to solve as many problems as possible in the time allowed and submit answers to the teacher;

·         write a quiz on the gas laws.

Activity 2.6:  Consumer Product Pamphlet

The teacher:

·         introduces the Consumer Product Pamphlet project earlier in the Unit as suggested in the planning notes and arranges time in the Library/Resource Centre or computer labs for access to the Internet or other resources;

·         leads a class discussion to identify technological products and safety concerns associated with compressed gases, e.g., propane tanks, fire extinguisher, air conditioners, scuba tanks and undersea exploration, welders’ tanks, etc.;

·         assigns the Consumer Product Pamphlet that describes a technological product and the safety concerns associated with the product;

·         using the input of the class develops the criteria required for the rubric that will be used to assess the Consumer Product Pamphlets and the oral presentations;

·         distributes the oral presentation and pamphlet rubrics for peer and teacher assessment (Note: peer assessments are not used for student evaluation) and assesses presentations;

·         allows students to improve their pamphlet based on peer assessments;

·         collects and assesses the final products;

·         instructs students to write a reflection on whether the uses of compressed gases have enhanced the quality of life and contributed to the common good.

Students:

·         brainstorm to identify possible products of compressed gases and any safety concerns;

·         participate in the development of the rubrics;

·         working in assigned pairs, choose a topic, research and describe how the product works and the safety concerns associated with the product;

·         design and complete the pamphlet and give a presentation on their consumer product;

·         participate in peer assessment of the presentations and the pamphlets;

·         use the peer assessments to improve their consumer product pamphlets;

·         submit their pamphlet for assessment;

·         write a reflection on the contributions of compressed gases to the common good.

Activity 2.7:  Preparing for the End of Unit Task

The teacher:

·         directs students to work on their end-of-unit task – Activity 4.2;

·         conferences with each research team to ensure they remain on task.

Students:

·         meet throughout the Unit to research and conference with each other and the teacher;

·         work collaboratively to gather information for the assigned task.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Student lab performance skills and charts for Activity 2.1(Boyle’s law) may be assessed for Inquiry using a suitable checklist. (SIS.01) (SIS.02) (SIS.03) (SIS.04) (GA2.03)

·         The lab report in Activity 2.2 (Charles’ law) may be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Inquiry and Communication using a lab rubric. (GA1.03)(GA2.03) (GA2.01) (SIS.05) (SIS.07)

·         The graphs and calculations for Activity 2.3 (Gay-Lussac’s law) may be assessed for Inquiry and Communication using a marking scale. (GA2.03) (SIS.07)

·         The paper-and-pencil quiz may be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding using a marking scheme. (GA1.03) (GA1.04) (GA2.04) (SIS.08)

·         The consumer product pamphlet and presentation may be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Communication, and Making Connections using appropriate rubrics. (GA3.03)

Accommodations

·         See the Course Overview for general accommodations.

·         Additional practice problems could be assigned to allow students to practise and improve their problem-solving skills. Students can take advantage of the numerous computer tutorials available.

·         Graphing calculators and peer reviews can reinforce graphing skills.

·         A lab station can be set up for wheelchair access.

·         Large print scales on instruments can be used for visually challenged students.

·         Possible enrichment activities:

·         Design and create a computer-generated version of the Gas law game.

·         Research and write an editorial on the safety concerns of compressed gases in the home.

·         Design and build a working model of one of the applications, e.g., hot air balloon, airbags etc.

·         Write a biography on one of the scientists in this activity.

·         Design a web page or tutorial to help students improve their problem-solving or graphing skills.

·         Prepare for University bound contests, e.g., Avogadro, Hall of Fame, Chemical Institute of Canada.

·         Visit a nearby automotive service centre, and observe the precautions and techniques necessary for the repair or removal of refrigeration products for automotive air-conditioning systems. Inquire about disposal procedures for these refrigerants.

·         Research the various colour codes used in the shipping of industrial canisters of compressed gases.

·         Compare and explain why commercial dry cake mixes have two different sets of preparation instructions on their packages.

Resources

Harrison, R., D. Fisher, and G. Rayner-Canham. Laboratory Manual Chemistry A First Course. Don Mills: Addison-Wesley Publishers, 1988. ISBN 0-201-17881-8

Holmquist, Dan and Donald L. Volz. Chemistry With Computers Using Logger Pro. Portland: Vernier Software, 1997. ISBN 0-918731-95-X

Lynn, David. Understanding Chemistry Laboratory Manual. Toronto: John Wiley & Sons, 1988.
ISBN 0- 471-79695-6

Tocci, Salvatore, and C. Viehland. Holt Chemistry Visualizing Matter. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1989. ISBN 0-03-000193-5

Whiteman, R.L., E.E. Zinck, and R.A. Nalepa. Chemistry Today 1, 3rd ed. Laboratory Manual. Scarborough: Prentice-Hall, 1989. ISBN 0-13-129321-4

Internet Sites

Scuba Physics  – http://www.cei.net/~dvines/laws.html

The Plain Man’s Guide to Aerosols  – http://www.yorks.karoo.net/aerosol/index.htm

School Science Projects with Hot Air Balloons  – http://www.overflite.com/science.html

 

Activity 3:  Avogadro and Molar Calculations

Time:  375 minutes

Description

Students state Avogadro’s hypothesis and describe his contribution to our understanding of reactions of gases. In addition, students demonstrate an understanding of Avogadro’s number, the mole, and molar mass. Through experimentation, students determine the molar volume of a gas. Furthermore, students solve quantitative problems involving the ideal gas law.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry

Overall Expectations

GAV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the laws that govern the behaviour of gases;

GAV.02 - investigate through experimentation the relationships among the pressure, volume, and temperature of a gas, and solve problems involving quantity of substance in moles, molar masses and volumes, and the gas laws.

Specific Expectations

GA1.05 - state Avogadro’s hypothesis and describe his contribution to our understanding
of reactions of gases;

QC1.01 - demonstrate an understanding of Avogadro’s number, the mole concept, and the relationship between the mole and molar mass;

GA2.04 - solve quantitative problems involving the following gas laws: Charles’s law, Boyle’s law, the combined gas law, Gay-Lussac’s law, Dalton’s law of partial pressures, the ideal gas law;

GA2.06 - determine the molar volume of a gas through experimentation.

Scientific Investigation Skills

SIS.05 - select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical, and linguistic modes of representation to communicate scientific ideas, plans, and experimental results;

SIS.07 - communicate the procedures and results of investigations for specific purposes by displaying evidence and information, either in writing or using a computer, in various forms, including flow charts, tables, graphs, and laboratory reports;

SIS.09 - select and use appropriate SI units (units of measurement of the Système international d’unités, or International System of Units).

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE3c - thinks reflectively and creatively to evaluate situations and solve problems;

CGE4f - applies effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, time and resource management skills;

CGE5f - exercises Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals;

CGE5g - achieves excellence, originality, and integrity in one’s own work and supports these qualities in the work of others.

Planning Notes

·         Homework should be assigned to develop student knowledge and problem-solving skills.

·         Teacher prepares one mole samples of several different substances, e.g., S, Cu, Pb, C, H2O, etc., labelling each closed container with the chemical symbol/formula, mass, and all necessary WHMIS information (Activity 3.2).

·         When stating Avogadro’s hypothesis, stress that at constant temperature and pressure the amount of substance relates to the number of particles and not the mass (a common misconception).

·         Blowing up a balloon illustrates Avogadro’s Law, V1/n1 = V2/n2.

·         The mole concept and Avogadro’s number are introduced in this activity. Students also solve problems involving molar mass of a substance and the molar volume of gas; however, (GA2.05), stoichiometric calculations involving gases in chemical reactions are covered in Unit 3, Quantities in Chemical Reactions.

·         For the counting activity, building blocks, paper clips, magnets, or molecular model kits could be used to represent molecules. Students first build models of the molecules of the reactants placing them in a beaker according to the relationship: one volume of a gas represents four molecules in a beaker. Students begin with one volume of each of the reactants. They then disassemble the models and use the exact same materials to construct the models of the products. (Note: Students may need to use more than one beaker of a particular reactant since all the reactant atoms must be used to construct the products.) The students then place the constructed models of the product molecules in beakers according to the same relationship, i.e., four molecules of product per one volume. They then count the number of reactant and product molecules and relate them to the volume, e.g., one volume contains four molecules and two volumes contain eight molecules. The students represent their findings using a schematic diagram showing the molecules and volumes for the reactants and products.

·         Teachers should be aware of all the safety precautions involved with the use of gas cylinders and need to follow school board regulations.

·         Balloons filled with various gases can be used as a teacher demonstration to reinforce that at the same temperature and pressure, equal volumes of different gases have different masses.

·         In this activity students should be provided with 75 minutes to work on Activity 4 in order to prepare for the conference.

·         Stress proper mathematical form, SI units, and significant figures when solving word problems.

·         When introducing the ideal gas law, stress that “n” represents the quantity of gas in moles and not the number of moles (a common misconception). Students should understand that real gases behave ideally only at high temperatures and low pressures (a common misconception).

·         Find suitable experiment to determine the molar volume of a gas (Activity 3.4).

·         Prepare a Unit test to be administered at the end of this activity.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Grade 10 Science: Chemistry – Chemical Processes

·         Grade 9 Science: Chemistry – Atoms and Elements

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Activity 3.1:  Avogadro’s Number

The teacher:

·         provides students with balloons to inflate and deflate in order to consider the qualitative relationship between volume and the amount of gas in the balloon;

·         describes Gay-Lussac’s law of Combining Volumes;

·         introduces the counting activity described in the Planning Notes and uses it to illustrate the reaction
A + B
ÕAB;

·         leads a class discussion to develop Avogadro’s hypothesis and instructs students working in pairs to model Avogadro’s hypothesis for specific reactions in their Data Books;

·         conferences with students to provide feedback on their understanding of Avogadro’s hypothesis;

·         collects Data Books to assess their schematic diagrams of the reactions.

Students:

·         qualitatively determine the relationship between volume and the amount of a substance;

·         summarize Gay-Lussac’s Law of Combining Volumes and Avogadro’s Hypothesis;

·         in their Data Books draw schematic diagrams to model Avogadro’s hypothesis for the reactions:

A)  H2 (g)

+

Cl2 (g)

Õ

2 HCl (g)

B)  2 H2 (g)

+

O2 (g)

Õ

2 H2O (g)

C)  N2 (g)

+

O2 (g)

Õ

2 NO (g)

·         submit their Data Books for assessment.

Activity 3.2:  Mole and Molar Mass

The teacher:

·         defines the mole and explains the relationship between the mole and Avogadro’s number;

·         displays one mole samples of several different substances, e.g., S, Cu, Pb, C, H2O, etc. The samples should be in closed containers labelled with chemical symbol/formula, mass, and all necessary WHMIS information, and instructs students to prepare a table with the headings: name of substance, chemical symbol/formula, mass;

·         distributes periodic tables and instructs students to compare the mass given on each container to the atomic mass or molecular mass obtained/calculated from the periodic table, in order to determine the relationship between the mass of one mole of each substance and its corresponding atomic/molecular mass;

·         to illustrate the concept that equal volumes of different gases at the same temperature and pressure have different masses, poses the question: Why does a balloon filled with helium rise, but one filled with an equal volume of carbon dioxide does not?;

·         defines molar mass and distributes a worksheet on molar mass calculations;

·         administers a quiz on the mole concept and molar mass.

Students:

·         record the chemical symbol/formula and the masses for each of the samples on display, and compare these to atomic masses/molecular masses obtained/calculated from the periodic table;

·         examine balloons filled with equal volumes of helium and carbon dioxide and hypothesize why the helium balloon rises;

·         complete assigned molar mass calculations and find a partner to check their calculations;

·         write a quiz on the mole concept and molar mass.

Activity 3.3:  End-of-Unit Task

The teacher:

·         explains the requirements for Activity 4.1, the newspaper flyer assignment;

·         directs students to collect research materials and monitors their progress.

Students:

·         work collaboratively to research and prepare the newspaper flyer assignment.

Activity 3.4:  Molar Volume of a Gas

The teacher:

·         discusses the experimental procedures to determine the molar volume of hydrogen gas produced by the reaction of magnesium metal with a dilute solution of hydrochloric acid;

·         defines standard temperature and pressure (STP) and reviews Dalton’s law of partial pressures;

·         prepares a set-up of the apparatus for students to model;

·         discusses safety precautions related to the use of hydrochloric acid;

·         conferences with students during the lab investigation to check that students are following procedures and  to assist with calculations, and guides students in sources of error;

·         collects student Data Books and assesses the experimental data and calculations.

Students:

·         in pairs, conduct the lab investigation to determine the molar volume of hydrogen gas, and perform calculations using experimental data; peer share the results of the experiment with other groups in order to compare and discuss possible sources of error;

·         submit their individual data analysis for assessment.

Activity 3.5:  Ideal Gas Law

The teacher:

·         reviews previous concepts by asking students the following questions: If samples of two different  gases, A and B, are at the same temperature and pressure, sample A contains 6.022x1023 particles and sample B contains 6.022x1023 particles, should they each occupy the same volume? Would they each have the same molar mass?;

·         guides students in deriving the ideal gas law, PV=nRT;

·         shows a sample calculation using the ideal gas law for determining the quantity of a gas in moles;

·         asks students to calculate the molar volume of a gas at STP, using the ideal gas law. This value could be compared to the experimental results obtained in Activity 3.4;

·         instructs students to create and solve two appropriate and relevant numerical problems involving the ideal gas law. Each problem should solve for a different variable;

·         directs students to peer share, peer edit and solve a variety of student prepared ideal gas problems;

·         assesses the word problems and solutions.

Students:

·         use Avogadro’s hypothesis, Boyle’s law and Charles’s law to derive the ideal gas law;

·         calculate the molar volume of a gas at STP using the ideal gas law, and compare this value to the molar volume determined for hydrogen gas in Activity 3.4, suggesting possible reasons for discrepancies;

·         compose and then answer two original realistic numerical problems involving the ideal gas law;

·         peer edit and comment on the creativity, clarity, and level of difficulty of the questions;

·         peer share and solve a variety of student created ideal gas law problems;

·         submit individual ideal gas law problems with solutions.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         The schematic diagrams modelling Avogadro’s hypothesis can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding using a rating scale. (GA1.05)

·         The quiz can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding using a marking scheme. (QC1.01)

·         The data analysis for Activity 3.4 can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Inquiry, Communication, and Making Connections using a lab rubric. (GA2.06,SIS.05,SIS.07)

·         The student created gas law problems can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding and Communication using a rating scale. (GA2.04, SIS.09)

Accommodations

·         See the course overview for general accommodations.

·         Computer tutorials can be used for additional practice in problem solving.

·         A lab station can be set up for wheel-chair access.

·         Large print scales can be used for the visually challenged students.

·         Possible enrichment activities:

·         Prepare a biography of Avogadro, outlining his achievements and impacts on chemistry.

·         Estimate the number of moles of water drops in the Great Lakes using the area, average depth, and the number of water drops in 1 mL.

·         Ammonia is used in the manufacture of fertilizers. How is it produced? Why it is stored as a liquid?

Resources

DiSpezio, M., T. Hall, D. Morrison, C. Schrader, D. Scodellaro, and J. Young. Heath Chemistry Laboratory Experiments. Canada: D.C. Heath Canada Ltd., 1987. ISBN 0-669-95291-5

Herron, J., D. Kukla, C. Schrader, D. Morrison, M. DiSpezio, J. Erickson, and D. Scodellaro.
Heath Chemistry. Canada: D.C. Heath Canada Ltd., 1987. ISBN 0-669-95289-3

Whitman, R., E. Zinck, and R. Nalepa. Chemistry Today 1. Scarborough: Prentice-Hall Canada Inc., 1988. ISBN 0-13-129306-0

Internet Sites

Avogadro’s Hypothesis  – http://www.carlton.paschools.pa.sk.ca/chemical/molemass/avogadro.htm

Mole  – www.dist214.k12.il.us/users/asanders/mole.html

 

Activity 4:  Gases and Life Conference

Time:  225 minutes

Description

Students describe technological advances and applications of gases in other disciplines. In addition, gas related environmental issues are examined as students research and explain Canadian initiatives to improve air quality. Students plan, organize, and participate in the “Gases and Life” conference. They set up displays/exhibits on the applications and uses of gases and participate in seminars addressing Canadian initiatives on air quality. Lastly, students recognize their role as stewards of the Earth in addressing the environmental concerns and issues relating to Canada’s atmosphere.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand: Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry

Overall Expectations

GAV.03 - describe how knowledge of gases has helped to advance technology, and how such technological advances have led to a better understanding of environmental phenomenon and issues.

Specific Expectations

GA3.02 - explain Canadian initiatives to improve air quality;

GA3.04 - describe how knowledge of gases is applied in other areas of study.

Science Investigation Skills

SIS.10 - identify and describe science- and technology-based careers related to the subject area of study.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE1d - develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity and the common good;

CGE1e - speaks the language of life... “recognizing that life is an unearned gift and that a person entrusted with life does not own it but that one is called to protect and cherish it.” (Witnesses to Faith);

CGE2e - uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE3b - creates, adapts, evaluates new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE3c - thinks reflectively and creatively to evaluate situations and solve problems;

CGE3d - makes decisions in light of gospel values with an informed moral conscience;

CGE3e - adopts a holistic approach to life by integrating learning from various subject areas and experience;

CGE4f - applies effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, time and resource management skills;

CGE5e - respects the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE7a - acts morally and legally as a person formed in Catholic traditions;

CGE7b - accepts accountability for one’s own actions;

CGE7d - promotes the sacredness of life;

CGE7i - respects the environment and uses resources wisely;

CGE7j - contributes to the common good.

Planning Notes

·         The end-of-unit task for this unit is an in-class student conference titled “Gases and Life.” The conference consists of exhibitions of students’ work compiled throughout the unit and student seminars focusing on Canadian initiatives to improve air quality. For the first 75 minutes of this activity students prepare their materials and presentations for the conference. The conference takes place during the remaining 150 minutes.

·         The exhibits/displays demonstrate a visual representation of all the applications and uses of gases studied in this unit. The displays include the following: the poster on a natural phenomena or the poster on a technological product from Activity 1.1, the consumer product pamphlet from
Activity 2.6, and the newspaper flyer prepared in this activity. Science fair backdrop boards can be used for the displays and should be purchased in advance. These exhibits/displays could also be presented to the entire student body or at an open house.

·         The newspaper flyer assignment for the end-of-unit task describes a related career and illustrates how the knowledge of gases has made possible many technological advancements in other areas of study.

·         While attending the exhibits in the conference, students prepare a fact sheet using the information obtained from their classmates’ displays. Students are encouraged to choose different topics of interest, e.g., natural phenomena if their poster involved a technological product, and vice versa, a topic that they did not research.

·         Students present the seminars and workshops focusing on Canadian initiatives to improve air quality. They are encouraged to play the role of members of government (local, regional, provincial, and federal), environment specialists, industrialists, and environmentally conscious citizens. In order to have a better understanding of the environmental issues related to air quality, students need to research and present information on the following types of air pollution: smog, acid rain, greenhouse gases, and ozone layer depletion. They should research recent Canadian initiatives in improving air quality such as Canada’s involvement in the Kyoto Agreement.

·         The workshops and seminars could involve multi-media presentations. Teachers should organize the conference so that there is representation from all groups listed. In addition, teachers should assign the type of air pollution for the groups to study to ensure that all areas of concern are addressed.

·         Ensure the Library/Resource Centre, Internet, and career programs are available for student use.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Grade 10 Science, Chemistry – Chemical Processes

·         Grade 9 Science, Chemistry – Atoms and Elements

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Activity 4.1:  Gases in Other Disciplines (Exhibits/Displays)

The teacher:

·         leads a class discussion to create a concept map for disciplines, e.g., meteorology, marine or undersea exploration, environment, medical, etc., careers, and technological advancements related to gases;

·         arranges for students to visit the Library/Resource Centre;

·         assigns the newspaper flyer assignment in which students working in pairs prepare: (a) a career profile including the educational requirements, a description of the career, and future outlooks of the career; (b) an illustration of a technological advancement in the field (photograph, model, diagram, or computer web page, etc.); and (c) a written article describing the benefits of the technological advancement to society; dialogues with groups to ensure that their topics are relevant and appropriate;

·         introduces the display/exhibit component of the “Gases and Life” conference as a visual exhibition of the application of gases in their lives;

·         instructs students that as they circulate through the displays, they are required to complete a fact sheet summarizing information obtained from one poster, pamphlet, and newspaper flyer;

·         assesses the fact sheet and the individual exhibit/displays;

·         instructs students to write a reflection summarizing the benefits and risks of technological products associated with gases.

Students:

·         participate in a class discussion to create a concept map for the applications of gases;

·         research and gather information on their approved topic for the newspaper flyer;

·         arrange all required work (poster, pamphlet, flyer) on a display board, bulletin board or Bristol board in preparation for the display/exhibit portion of the “Gases and Life” conference;

·         on a rotation basis, circulate, visit, and study other displays, and prepare a fact sheet on each of the topics outlined;

·         submit their individual fact sheet and group display for assessment;

·         write a reflection on the impact technologies have had on society and the environment. Students will select a Psalm that speaks of nature and creation as manifesting the wonders and grandeur of God. Students will reflect on what scholars call “de-creation.”

Activity 4.2:  Air Quality  (Workshops/Seminars)

The teacher:

·         discusses smoking by-laws in the local community to raise the issue of air quality;

·         organizes groups according to assigned role and outlines the workshop/seminar component of the conference. The focus of the research task could include the following:

·         What are the major sources of the air pollution?

·         What natural events and human activities are responsible for the atmospheric problems?

·         Explain how each type of air pollution affects air quality.

·         What are the effects of damaging the atmosphere? What specific health concerns are associated with poor air quality?

·         What technological advancements are currently being used to monitor the pollutant(s) that affect the atmosphere?

·         Identify and assess the Canadian initiatives taken to improve air quality.

·         What are the economic implications of the proposed initiatives?

·         Suggest ways for citizens to reduce their contribution to the problem(s) in order to improve air quality.

·         conferences with each group to ensure they remain on task;

·         assesses the workshop/seminar component of the conference;

·         leads a discussion on the need for the implementation of the proposed initiatives to improve air quality, and compiles suggestions for future challenges;

·         directs students to write a reflection discussing the impact of the conference on their lives. Students may be invited to reflect on Deut. 30:19: “I have set before you life or death… Choose life.” How does this choice relate to today’s reality?

Students:

·         in groups of four, work collaboratively to brainstorm, research, and conference with each other and the teacher to prepare their chosen mode of presentation for the workshop/seminar component of the conference;

·         prepare worksheets and activities for the seminar/workshop they lead;

·         participate in the workshops/seminars;

·         write a reflection commenting on the impact the conference has made on their understanding of gases and how they will use this knowledge in making choices in the future, i.e., steps that they can take to improve air quality.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         The exhibit/display can be assessed for Communication using a suitable rubric.

·         The newspaper flyer can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Communication, and Making Connections using a rubric. (GA3.04, SIS.10)

·         The fact sheet can be assessed for Communication using a rating scale.

·         The air quality workshop/seminar can be assessed for Knowledge/Understanding, Communication, and Making Connections using a rubric. (Appendix B) (GA3.02)

Accommodations

·         See the course overview for general accommodations.

·         Possible enrichment activities:

·         Acting as a reporter for the school newspaper, students write an article for the next edition of the paper, which describes the highlights of the “Gases and Life” conference.

·         Prepare a video along with a narrative of the conference that includes the exhibits and displays as well as highlights of the seminars;

·         Research air pollution in developing countries and report your findings in a local paper; commenting on the role and responsibility of industrialized nations for improving their air quality;

·         Investigate international responses to protect the atmosphere and compare them to Canadian initiatives.

Resources

Draper, D. Our Environment: A Canadian Perspective. Toronto: International Thomson Publishing Company, 1998. ISBN 0-17-605552-5

Chemistry of the Environment. British Columbia: Davis Film and Video Productions, 1993. 34 min.

Internet Sites

Climate Change  – http://www.davidsuzuki.org

Ministry of the Environment  – http://www.ene.gov.on.ca


Appendix A

A PRAYER OF GRATITUDE

St. Francis of Assisi

 

Most High, all powerful, good Lord,

Praised be you, my Lord, for Brother Wind

to you all praise, glory and honour

and for the air and for the clouds,

and all blessing;

for the azure calm and for all climes

to you alone, Most High, they belong

by which you give life to your creatures.

and no man is worthy of naming you.

 

 

Praised be you, my Lord, for Sister Water,

Praised be you, my Lord,

who is very useful and humble,

with all your creatures,

precious and chaste.

especially Milord Brother Sun,

 

who brings day, and by whom you enlighten us;

Praised be you, my Lord, for Brother Fire,

he is beautiful, he shines with great splendour;

by whom you enlighten the night:

of you, Most high, he is the symbol.

he is beautiful and joyous,

 

indomitable and strong.

Praised be you, my Lord,

 

for Sister Moon and the Stars:

Praised be you; my Lord,

in the heavens you formed them,

for Sister our mother the Earth

clear, precious and beautiful.

who nourishes us and bears us,

 

and produces all kinds of fruits,

 

with the speckled flowers and the herbs.

Appendix B

End-of-Unit Task Performance Rubric

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-61%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Knowledge of types and sources of air pollution, and Canadian initiatives to improve air qualities (K)

- demonstrates limited knowledge of types and sources of air pollution and Canadian initiatives

- demonstrates some knowledge of types and sources of air pollution and Canadian initiatives

- demonstrates considerable knowledge of types and sources of air pollution and Canadian initiatives

- demonstrates thorough knowledge of types and sources of air pollution and Canadian initiatives

Use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases and air quality

(C)

- uses appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases and air quality with limited clarity and precision

- uses appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases and air quality with moderate clarity and precision

- uses appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases and air quality with considerable clarity and precision

- uses appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to gases and air quality with high degree of clarity and precision

Understanding of connections between advanced technology due to knowledge of gases and environmental issues related to gases and air quality

(MC)

- shows limited understanding of connections between advanced technology due to knowledge of gases and environmental issues related to gases and air quality

- shows some understanding of connections between advanced technology due to knowledge of gases and environmental issues related to gases and air quality

- shows considerable understanding of connections between advanced technology due to knowledge of gases and environmental issues related to gases and air quality

- shows thorough understanding of connections between advanced technology due to knowledge of gases and environmental issues related to gases and air quality

Analysis of social and economic issues involving air quality, and Canadian initiatives to improve air quality

(MC)

- analyses social and economic issues involving air quality and Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with limited effectiveness

- analyses social and economic issues involving air quality and Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with moderate effectiveness

- analyses social and economic issues involving air quality and Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with considerable effectiveness

- analyses social and economic issues involving air quality and Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with high degree of effectiveness

Assessment of impact of Canadian initiatives to improve air quality

(MC)

- assesses the impact of Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with limited effectiveness

- assesses the impact of Canadian initiatives to improve air with moderate effectiveness

- assesses the impact of Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with considerable effectiveness

- assesses the impact of Canadian initiatives to improve air quality with high degree of effectiveness

Proposing of courses of practical action on improving air quality

(MC)

- extends analyses of gas related environmental issues into courses of practical action on improving air quality with limited effectiveness

- extends analyses gas related environmental issues into courses of practical action on improving air quality with moderate effectiveness

- extends analyses of gas related environmental issues into courses of practical action on improving air quality with considerable effectiveness

- extends analyses of gas related environmental issues into courses of practical action on improving air quality with high degree of effectiveness

Note: A student whose achievement is below level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

 

 

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