Course Profile   Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparation, Public

 

Unit 5:  Hydrocarbons and Energy

Time:  20 hours

 

Activity 5.1 | Activity 5.2 | Activity 5.3 | Activity 5.4 | Activity 5.5

Unit Description

The intent of this unit is to introduce students to the world of organic chemistry. The unit begins with an exploration of the sources of hydrocarbons and moves on to an examination of their properties and characteristics. Simple reactions of hydrocarbons, calorimetry and thermochemical equations are used to investigate the energetics of bond making and breaking. The nomenclature of organic chemistry is also introduced. Throughout, students should be thinking about and discussing the benefits and risks of hydrocarbons in use today. The unit culminates with a research activity on the uses of hydrocarbons in society.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Expectations

Assessment

Task/Focus

5.1 Introduction to Organic Chemistry

240 min

HEV.01, HEV.02, HEV.03, HE1.01, HE1.02, HE1.03, HE1.04, HE2.04, HE3.01, HE3.02, MCV.02, MCV.03, MC2.04, MC3.01, MC3.04

K, I, MC, C

Teacher-led discussions; student model building; laboratory investigations

5.2 Naming Hydrocarbons

180 min

HEV.01, HEV.02, HE1.03, HE2.01, HE2.02, HE2.03, MCV.02, MC2.04

K, I

Teacher lessons on nomenclature; student practice exercises and model building.

5.3 Properties of Hydrocarbons

120 min

HEV.01, HEV.02, HE1.03, HE2.01, HE2.06, MCV.01, MC1.03

K, I, MC, C

Student laboratory exercise; teacher-led discussion;

5.4 Hydrocarbons as Fuels

360 min

HEV.01, HEV.02, HE1.04, HE1.05, HE1.06, HE2.01, HE2.05, HE2.06, HE2.07, MCV.03, MC3.01, QCV.01, QCV.03, QC1.05, QC2.01, QC2.09, QC3.01

K, I, MC, C

Teacher demonstrations; teacher led lessons on heat; calorimetry experiments; student design, build and use apparatus for investigation of heat of combustion

5.5 End-of-Unit Tasks

300 min

HEV.03, HE3.02

K, I, MC, C

Student research and presentations

 

Unit Planning Notes

·         Teachers should be aware of the Organic Chemistry unit found in the SCH4U course. There should be a smooth transition from the 3U to the 4U course.

·         It will be necessary to book time in both the Library/Resource Centre and the computer lab for the students to work on the culminating Activity 5.5.

·         This unit should have a balance between presented material and laboratory explorations.

·         Several activities in this unit involve organic chemicals that may or may not be permitted in any given school board. Be sure to check your board’s policies and be prepared to make substitutions.

·         Peer feedback/self-evaluation can be used as a component of the assessment of Activity 5.5.

·         Proper laboratory safety (goggles, gloves, ventilation) must be observed for all lab activities.

·         Follow WHMIS and board regulations for the disposal of organic chemicals. Although the quantities involved often do not require special attention under WHMIS legislation, students should see that the issue of safe disposal of organic chemicals is given special consideration. Sealed containers of “mixed organics” retained in ventilated storage for pickup as hazardous waste, for example, sends a clear message that environmentally responsible behaviour is expected in the laboratory.

·         Wherever possible, re-enforce topics from Units 1 – 4.

·         Seek out community resources, where possible, in the form of local industry, post-secondary institutions, or sites like Science North or the Ontario Science Centre, to support this unit.

·         This unit is “content rich”. Careful planning will be essential. Consult with other chemistry teachers regarding the level of detail required for the transition between 3U and 4U chemistry.

·         Review the Appendix on Rubric Development at the end of this unit before beginning the unit. Take advantage of opportunities for students to participate in the development of assessment tools, which will be applied to their work.

Unit Resources

Standard university introductory organic chemistry textbooks will be useful.

BioChemLinks – http://biochemlinks.com/

This site has a vast set of organic sites listed – everything from nomenclature to reactions and software.

Advanced Chemistry Development – http:www.acdlabs.com

ChemSketch is a powerful modelling program available free from ACD. Also available is support documentation and other chemistry software.

Molecular model kits. One inexpensive option is the Framework Molecular Model kit available from Prentice Hall Canada – (http://www.prenticehall.ca/list_ac/searches/MC0511.html). Other kits are available from various suppliers.

Online tutorials in bonding and stereochemistry can be located with search engines. One Canadian example can be found at – http://redbaron.bishops.ntc.nf.ca/science/chem/html/bondstoc.htm

ERIC (Educational Resources Information Centre) resources of all kinds can be found through links at
 – http://www.accesseric.org:81/home.html.

Of particular use is the ERIC Clearinghouse for Science, Mathematics and Environmental Education at
 – http://www.ericse.org/

Slater, Alan and Rayner-Canham, Geoff. Microscale Chemistry Laboratory Manual. Don Mills, ON. Addison-Wesley Publishers Ltd., 1994. Teacher’s Edition ISBN 0-201-60216-4 and Student’s Edition ISBN 0-201-60215-6

 

Activity 5.1:  An Introduction to Organic Chemistry

Time:  240 minutes

Description

This activity introduces students to the ubiquitous nature of organic molecules in general and to the sources of hydrocarbons in our world. The purification of crude oil by fractional distillation is outlined. Students review bonding concepts from earlier in the course and then extend these ideas by examining the structure of hydrocarbon molecules. Molecular shape is introduced for methane. Using molecular models, students review single, double and triple bonds as applied to carbon. The differences in reactivity for alkanes and alkenes are investigated in the laboratory. Throughout the unit, the focus is on the incredible variety of hydrocarbons, and the links between their properties – and hence uses – and their structure. Wherever possible, real examples must be used. While the primary focus of this unit is an introduction to hydrocarbons, the unifying theme running through the unit is a review of material covered in previous units. In a sense, the “nuts and bolts” of the course are covered in the earlier units, and the hydrocarbon unit ties it all together with authentic examples and applications.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Hydrocarbons and Energy; Matter and Chemical Bonding

Specific Expectations

HE1.01 - identify the origins and major sources of organic compounds;

HE1.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the particular characteristics of the carbon atom, especially with respect to bonding in both aliphatic and cyclic alkanes, including structural isomers;

HE1.03 - describe some of the physical and chemical properties of hydrocarbons;

HE1.04 - compare the energy changes observed when chemical bonds are formed and when they are broken, and relate these changes to endothermic and exothermic reactions;

HE2.04 - determine through experimentation some of the characteristic properties of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons;

HE3.01 - describe the steps involved in refining petroleum to obtain gasoline and other useful fractions;

HE3.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of hydrocarbons as fuels and in other applications, such as the manufacture of polymers, and identify the risks and benefits of these uses to society and the environment;

MC2.04 - draw Lewis structures, construct molecular models, and give the structural formulae for compounds containing single and multiple bonds;

MC3.01 - identify chemical substances and reactions in everyday use or of environmental significance;

MC3.04 - demonstrate an understanding of the need for the safe use of chemicals in everyday life.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Students should be well versed in bonding from the first unit. This particular activity relies on all aspects of bonding taught in Unit 1.

·         Throughout this unit an effort is made to review, through real examples, key concepts from earlier units.

Planning Notes

·         Have a variety of materials derived from hydrocarbons available for examination and discussion.

·         Some students may be sensitive to some organic compounds. Excellent ventilation during laboratory work with organics is essential. Students with sensitivities may have to be excused from direct contact with particular compounds. Teachers should consult Material Safety Data Sheets for appropriate treatment of sensitivities to substances being used in the laboratory.

·         There is a close connection between this unit in the Grade 11 course and the Organic Chemistry unit in the Grade 12 course. Discuss the placement of topics and the depth of treatment of topics with colleagues teaching the Grade 12 course.

·         Have a variety of appropriate models available – marshmallows and toothpicks for the Activity 5.1.2 and formal models for Activity 5.1.3

·         Database and spreadsheet software used should be consistent with programs with which the students are familiar from their computer courses.

·         Ensure that chemicals for Activity 5.1.4 are appropriate for your site. Substitute substances may be required.

·         Students are instructed to collect newspaper/magazine articles for Final Assessment Task.

·         The definition of “organic” should be addressed at the outset of this unit to avoid confusion with popular terms such as “organic” farming and “organic” shampoo.

·         Throughout the unit students must see that there is a tension between the benefits and hazards associated with the chemistry of hydrocarbons and organic chemistry in general. They should emerge as informed citizens who will demonstrate healthy skepticism when confronted with the opinions of others about, for example, the “evils” of chemicals, the “good” of all things “organic” in the marketplace, or the “safety” of chemical waste materials and disposal systems.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

5.1.1 Student Activity: Students participate in a discussion of organic molecules, their origins as well as their importance in today’s society. Both the benefits and risks will be brainstormed, discussed and noted. The sources of hydrocarbon materials, the refining of these materials, as well as their modification and manipulation by the chemical industry, should be included. The eventual fate of these molecules, their persistence in the environment, and the possibilities of recycling should be discussed as well. Students have an opportunity here to develop their skills at persuasive argument, working as members of a team, consensus building and respecting the views of others. There should be diverging opinions about the benefits and risks associated with organic chemicals. These diverging opinions should be aired and discussed in both large and small groups.

Teacher Facilitation: Have a variety of examples of organic molecules in mind for the discussion. A few “starters” such as gasoline, plastic bags and bottles, and over-the-counter medications should get students started. The key idea will be to brainstorm as many examples as possible of materials derived from hydrocarbon raw materials. Student discussion can then be lead in the direction of how these materials can be derived from the same crude oil starting material. Separation of materials by fractional distillation can be outlined, leading to the concept of homologous series; as molecular weight increases, so does boiling point. Be sure to point out for discussion the problems society faces as a result of hydrocarbon use, such as pollution, oil spills, and the difficulties associated with the transportation and manufacturing of organic chemicals. This activity could be used for students to practise presenting their views and information to the class orally, a skill that can be applied in the Final Assessment Tasks.

5.1.2 Student Activity: Students use simple model kits, Styrofoam balls or marshmallows and toothpicks to build molecular models of hydrocarbons of up to six carbons with as many hydrogen atoms as necessary. The need for some kind of systematic recording of structures should emerge. Students should encounter multiple bonds as well as rings as they explore the bonding of carbon. Students who are more comfortable with computers may use molecular modelling software.

Teacher Facilitation: Be prepared to provide hints to students regarding multiple bonds and rings as additional ways that carbon atoms can bond. Ensure that students are checking each molecule to ensure that carbon atoms are obeying the rules of bonding. Teach the students a systematic method of recording the structure on paper, such as molecular structures. Examples of hydrocarbon molecules and their structure can be shown to students.

5.1.3 Student Activity: Students participate in a discussion of bonding and examine the shape of a tetravalent carbon atom. Double and triple bonds are introduced. Students will soon see the need for an organized system of nomenclature of hydrocarbons, as a way of facilitating discussion of organic molecules. Students classify the molecules as alkanes, alkenes and alkynes, as well as saturated, or unsaturated. Aliphatic cyclic compounds are introduced

Teacher Facilitation: Review and re-enforce chemical bonding from earlier in this course, as well as the idea of molecular polarity. Discuss with students the variety of bonding that carbon undergoes, extending the tetrahedron to alkene and alkyne compounds. Illustrate the value of a systematic classification system for hydrocarbons.

5.1.4 Student Activity: Students perform a simple activity to explore the differences in reactivity of saturated versus unsaturated hydrocarbons. They are introduced to the concept of functionality in organic molecules.

Teacher Facilitation: In selecting a lab activity, be aware of any board restrictions on chemicals and ensure adequate ventilation. Small “micro chemical” experiments should be considered. The bromination of cyclohexane and cyclohexene or the reaction of permanganate with similar compounds could be used. Follow all board regulations for the safe handling and disposal of organic chemicals.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

A laboratory report for the experiment would be appropriate. Short quiz questions based on the classification of organic molecules should be used to determine the students’ abilities. Students could construct all of the isomers of a simple hydrocarbon, and record their list of isomers in the format determined by the teacher. This activity provides an opportunity to assess and give feedback to students on their group work skills, and the oral communication skills, which they may apply in the Final Assessment Tasks.

Accommodations

·         Extensions should be selected to avoid topics covered in the Grade 12 Organic Chemistry unit.

·         The slight distinction in spelling among such terms as alkane, alkene and alkyne may be a challenge for some students and should be clearly emphasized during instruction. The same issue will arise in Activity 5.2. Give students many opportunities to see, say, and write the terms, which may cause problems, while linking the differences to differences in properties and reactions throughout this unit.

Resources

Molecular modelling software; molecular models; online tutorials (See Unit Resources)

 

Activity 5.2:  Naming Hydrocarbons

Time:  180 minutes

Description

This activity introduces students to the IUPAC nomenclature system. The concept of isomers, both structural and geometric is introduced. Hands-on approaches are emphasized by using molecular models. Computer-based molecular modelling should be used to illustrate technology’s role in visualizing molecules.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Hydrocarbons and Energy; Matter and Chemical Bonding

Specific Expectations

HE1.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the particular characteristics of the carbon atom, especially with respect to bonding in both aliphatic and cyclic alkanes, including structural isomers;

HE1.03 - describe some of the physical and chemical properties of hydrocarbons;

HE2.01 - use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to hydrocarbons and the energy changes involved in their combustion;

HE2.02 - name, using the IUPAC nomenclature system, and draw structural representations for, aliphatic and cyclic hydrocarbons containing no more than ten carbon atoms in the main chain, with or without side chains;

HE2.03 - use molecular models to demonstrate the arrangement of atoms in isomers of hydrocarbons;

MC2.04 - draw Lewis structures, construct molecular models, and give the structural formulae for compounds containing single and multiple bonds.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         The introduction to bonding begun in Activity 5.1

·         A knowledge of bond polarity

Planning Notes

·         Have a variety of appropriate, formal models available.

·         Students should not be overwhelmed with an exhaustive treatment of nomenclature. Limit discussion to molecules up to ten carbon atoms.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

5.2.1 Student Activity: Students learn the names of the first ten hydrocarbons. Their knowledge is extended to include alkenes and alkynes, paying careful attention to specifying the location of these unsaturations. Students can work with partners to practise nomenclature; one student draws a molecule for the other to name, then trading roles.

Teacher Facilitation: Teach the students the names of the first ten hydrocarbons. Explain the system used by IUPAC to specify the location of double and triple bonds. Allow students an opportunity to practise aspects of nomenclature as they are discussed. Worksheets with numerous examples should be available for additional practice.

5.2.2 Student Activity: Students use formal molecular models, or computers if they are more comfortable, to discover the number and variety of isomers that can be constructed for a given hydrocarbon formula. Starting first with simple molecules, students gain experience with the concept of isomers, before moving on to more complex examples.

Teacher Facilitation: Guide the students through the variety of branched chain isomers of a given formula. Limit the examples used to one or two branches of one or two carbons. The emphasis is on the concept of isomers, not an exhaustive treatment of nomenclature. Students who master this concept can be given the opportunity to try more sophisticated examples.

5.2.3 Student Activity: Students complete their investigation of isomers by exploring the cis and trans isomers possible for simple molecules containing a double bond. The relationship between structure and polarity is discussed. Starting with dichloroethene, students should be able to construct the three possible isomers. Cyclic compounds may be discovered and discussed.

Teacher Facilitation: Allow the students to discover the isomers that can be formed when a molecule contains a double bond. Dichloroethene is a good starting molecule. Again, the need for a systematic nomenclature system will arise. Teach the IUPAC system for cis/trans isomers.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students should be required to build models for a given formula and to provide its name. Students should also be able to construct all of the possible isomers for a given formula.

Accommodations

Students should be offered the opportunity to work with either physical or computer-based models.

Chemical nomenclature is very precise and uses similar words such as alkane and alkene that may be challenging for some students. Emphasize these distinctions. Students who encounter difficulties might create ‘flash cards’ for themselves to practise with outside class.

Resources

Molecular modelling software; molecular models (See Unit Resources)

 

Activity 5.3:  Properties of Hydrocarbons

Time:  120 minutes

Description

This activity requires students to collect data on the physical properties of hydrocarbons. This data will be entered into a data base or spreadsheet, so that trends between carbon chain length and various properties can be graphed. The concept of a homologous series is introduced. The chemical properties of various classes of hydrocarbons are discussed.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Hydrocarbons and Energy; Matter and Chemical Bonding

Specific Expectations

HE1.03 - describe some of the physical and chemical properties of hydrocarbons;

HE2.01 - use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to hydrocarbons and the energy changes involved in their combustion;

HE2.06 - write balanced chemical equations for the complete and incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons;

MC1.03 - demonstrate an understanding of the formation of ionic and covalent bonds and explain the properties of the products.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Hydrocarbon nomenclature

·         Reactivity of hydrocarbons from Activity 5.1.4

·         Writing balanced chemical equations

Planning Notes

·         Resources should be available to students for the collection of physical property data. The library staff should be consulted.

·         Appropriate software for the collection and display of data should be chosen. Ideally, software that the students are familiar with from computer courses should be used.

·         Access to computers should be arranged in advance of this activity. As alternatives, charts and graph paper could be used.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

5.3.1 Student Activity: Students collect physical property data for a homologous series of hydrocarbons from reference works such as The Merck Index, the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, from online sources or other reference books. Students then use the database to prepare a graph of the property versus chain length. The relationships are summarized and shared with the class.

Teacher Facilitation: Assign properties to be studied to various groups of students. Melting point, boiling point, density and physical state would be appropriate. While good correlations exist for homologous series of hydrocarbons, it might be appropriate to include a property that doesn’t correlate well, to show students that, just like periodic table properties, there are exceptions here as well. Review solubility ideas from Unit 3.

5.3.2 Student Activity: Students participate in a discussion of the chemical reactions of hydrocarbons. The addition reactions from Activity 5.1.4 serve as a starting point to addition reactions in general. Students review the balancing of equations and write equations for the combustion of hydrocarbons. The value of manipulating organic molecules for the construction of larger more complex molecules (organic synthesis) is discussed.

Teacher Facilitation: Discuss with students the addition reactions studied earlier. Expand the discussion to combustion reactions. Include the processing of crude oil and cracking of alkanes. The hydrogenation of oils can be discussed. Review the balancing of chemical equations. Introduce students to the concept of organic synthesis. Discuss with students the motivation to design new molecules, and that by altering the molecule, the properties can be changed. Polymers can take on new properties by changing the formula of the monomers. Drugs can be altered by modifying their structure. These types of manipulations may lead to polymers with improved biodegradability, or drugs with reduced side effects.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Student presentation of their database graphs

·         Quizzes on the balancing of chemical equations involving hydrocarbons

Accommodations

·         Students could explore patterns in properties beyond those assigned by the teacher. Reactions such as substitutions could be examined.

Resources

Lide; David R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. The Chemical Rubber Company.

Susan Budavari, ed. The Merck Index. Whitehouse Station, N.J.: Merck Research Laboratories.

Various online nomenclature packages, for example: Simple Organic Nomenclature: A Self Study Exercise – http://www.ucdsb.on.ca/tiss/stretton/chem1/organicx.htm

 

Activity 5.4:  Hydrocarbons as Fuels

Time:  360 minutes

Description

Students are introduced to the key concepts in the energetics of chemical reactions. Exothermic and endothermic reactions are discussed and demonstrated. Thermochemical equations are introduced as a way of recording the energetics of these reactions. The relationship between energetics and the making and breaking of chemical bonds is explored and explained. Students are introduced to calorimetry and ultimately design their own experiments to measure the heat of combustion of a hydrocarbon fuel. Error analysis and experimental design are discussed.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Hydrocarbons and Energy; Matter and Chemical Bonding; Quantities in Chemical Reactions

Specific Expectations

HE1.04 - compare the energy changes observed when chemical bonds are formed and when they are broken, and relate these changes to endothermic and exothermic reactions;

HE1.05 - explain how mass, heat capacity, and change in temperature of an object determine the amount of heat it gains or loses;

HE1.06 - identify ways in which reactants, products, and a heat term are combined to form thermochemical equations representing endothermic and exothermic chemical changes.

HE2.01 - use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to hydrocarbons and the energy changes involved in their combustion;

HE2.05 - carry out an experiment involving the production or combustion of a hydrocarbon and write the corresponding balanced chemical equation;

HE2.06 - write balanced chemical equations for the complete and incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons;

HE2.07 - gather and interpret experimental data and solve problems involving calorimetry and the equation Q = mcΔt;

MC3.01 - identify chemical substances and reactions in everyday use or of environmental significance;

QC1.05 - state the quantitative relationships expressed in a chemical equation;

QC2.01 - use appropriate scientific vocabulary to communicate ideas related to chemical calculations;

QC2.09 - compare, using laboratory results, the theoretical yield of a reaction;

QC3.01 - give examples of the application of chemical quantities and calculations.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         Students will likely need to be taught some of the basic concepts in heat. Review and expand upon the heat concepts taught in the weather unit from Grade 10. Heat and the particle theory are also covered in Grade 7.

·         Proper handling of significant digits.

·         The inter-conversion of mass to moles using molar mass.

·         Mathematics teachers should be consulted, so that the handling of calculations is consistent.

Planning Notes

·         Demonstrations of exothermic and endothermic processes should be prepared. The dissolving of CaCl2 (exothermic) and NH4NO3 (endothermic) can be used.

·         A variety of hydrocarbon fuels needs to be collected. These could include paraffin wax candles, butane barbecue lighters, natural gas and Sterno fuel. There is a good opportunity here to relate properties such as state to the structure of the molecule.

·         Equipment for calorimetry will be necessary for the student designed lab. The basic “soup can” can be used, although students may wish to upgrade their apparatus to minimize heat loss by adding a “juice can” chimney around their apparatus.

·         Teachers need to be aware of possible student misconceptions that may exist about heat.

·         Ensure that students understand that thermochemistry can be applied to any type of chemical reaction, and that it is not limited to hydrocarbon reactions.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

5.4.1 Student Activity: Students observe a series of demonstrations of exo- and endothermic processes. The applications of these sorts of reactions are discussed. Students relate the energy changes of these reactions to the bonds that are being broken and reformed. Students learn to record energetics information in the form of thermochemical equations.

Teacher Facilitation: Demonstrate a series of exo- and endothermic reactions and processes. Solicit from the students’ examples of practical applications of these reactions. Guide the students to the explanation of energetics through the making and breaking of chemical bonds. Review the concept from bonding that atoms bonded together as molecules are more stable than individual atoms, and that this stability is achieved by releasing energy. The combustion of acetylene can be included as an example of complete and incomplete combustion.

5.4.2 Student Activity: Students participate in a teacher-led lesson on heat. The measurement of heat is discussed, along with the idea that heat lost somewhere in a system equals heat gained somewhere else. The factors that determine heat transfer are discussed. Specific heat capacity is explained. The quantitative measurement of enthalpy is explained using Q = mcΔt. Students practice these calculations before proceeding.

Teacher Facilitation: Teach a lesson on heat. Assess prior knowledge from the weather unit in
Grade 10, and probe for misconceptions. Explain the quantitative treatment of energetics. Introduce students to the terminology associated with thermochemistry, including specific heat capacity. Provide students with opportunity to practice solving numerical problems.

5.4.3 Student Activity: Students perform experiments involving calorimetry. The proper design of such experiments is discussed with regard to practical problems. Simple examples might include the melting of ice, the mixing of quantities of water of differing temperatures or the addition of various hot materials into water. In all cases, students record mass and temperature data and calculate the heat lost and gained within the system.

Teacher Facilitation: Provide the students with a variety of calorimetry experiments to perform. Monitor their ability to properly perform the experiment and record the necessary data. Experimental error within these experiments should be discussed and means of reducing this error explored.

5.4.4 Student Activity: Students design their own apparatus to measure the heat of combustion of a variety of hydrocarbon fuels. Their heat data should be reported in both joules per gram and joules per mole of fuel. Experimental error is discussed.

Teacher Facilitation: Assist students with the design of their experiments. Review and re-enforce moles and equations from Unit 2. Provide materials and suggestions. A variety of fuels should be available. Encourage students to reduce experimental error. Be aware of the dangers associated with this experiment.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Quizzes based on numerical problem solving and definitions

·         Lab report for Activity 5.4.4

Accommodations

·         The safety associated with a combustion experiment must be considered.

·         Students are encouraged to improve the design, once data has been collected and analysed.

·         Additional types of fuels could be made available for measurement.

Resources

Take particular care that any resource given to students uses SI Units.

 

Activity 5.5:  Hydrocarbon Research Assignment

Time:  300 minutes

Description

This assignment constitutes a portion of the final assessment task. Students choose a topic within the theme of Hydrocarbons in Society. Sample topics could include; oils spills, tar sand extraction, refining of crude oil, sources of hydrocarbons, global warming, or alternative fuels. Students prepare a presentation which might take the form of a poster presentation, a webpage, or use of presentation software. Within the limitations of available resources, students should be allowed to use a format that caters to a strength or addresses a skill set to be developed. Global and social issues, such as environmental impact, transportation and de-regulation, must be included. An oral component to the presentation should be considered.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Hydrocarbons and Energy

Specific Expectations

HE3.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of hydrocarbons as fuels and in other applications, such as the manufacture of polymers, and identify the risks and benefits of these uses to society and the environment.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         This assignment will potentially cover any topic in the Hydrocarbon Unit.

·         If an electronic presentation is required, students will need to be familiar with presentation software or some HTML editing program.

Planning Notes

·         Students should be reminded of this activity throughout the unit, so that they can collect resources and select a topic.

·         Discuss potential topics with the library staff so that resources may be collected and managed.

·         Ensure that if electronic presentations are required that the facilities are available for students to both prepare and present their work. Students should be familiar with the software that they will be using. Whenever possible, suggest that they use programs that they have used in previous courses.

·         Be familiar with the resources in the school, should students have ideas for topics that are not on your list.

·         Students may need some guidance in addressing some of the global, environmental, and social issues.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

5.5.1 Student Activity: Students select a topic for research, either from a list suggested by the teacher or by creating one of their own. Students use information from earlier in the course, as well as materials from the Library/Resource Centre and the media to prepare a presentation on their topic.

Teacher Facilitation: Outline the project with students. Distribute possible project ideas and the marking scheme or rubric to be used. Allow students time to work on their projects. Expect that students may require assistance with their topic selection, or with the collection of materials. It may be necessary to book some time for the class in the Library/Resource Centre or computer lab.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Using the marking scheme or rubric distributed earlier, evaluate the students presentations. If time permits, in-class presentations and/or peer feedback could be used.

Accommodations

Students could be given the option to do a more traditional poster project.

Resources

Appropriate resources for the projects should be located in libraries (school, public, university and college, industrial) and found using search engines on the Internet. Encourage use of Canadian sources where possible.

EDU Web Index has links to assessment sites – http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/webmap.html

Online Resources for Assessment – http://www.rmcdenver.com/useguide/assessme/online.htm

ERIC Clearinghouse for assessment, evaluation and research – http://ericae.net/


Appendix 1

Rubric Development

 

Complex performance tasks involve the use of knowledge and the application of skills in a context, and must be judged/evaluated using well defined criteria. The vehicle for guiding that judgment is the rubric. It consists of a set of criteria in one dimension, and a fixed scale in the other dimension. For The Ontario Curriculum, the most convenient scale is a four-point scale, which parallels the four levels in the Achievement Chart. In the body of the rubric there is a list of characteristics describing performance for each criterion under each of the points on the scale. Many generic samples of rubrics have been developed which can be modified to apply to different situations.

Most importantly, students should be given the information in the rubric prior to undertaking the task, so that it is entirely clear to them what a good performance must embody.

The power of rubrics in promoting student achievement is realized when students are directly involved in the development of a rubric for the assessment of an activity they are about to undertake. The samples below may be useful as models to begin that process.

Generic Rubric for Declarative Knowledge

The first Overall Expectation in each unit of all Grade 11 Science courses refers to student understanding of key concepts. A generalized rubric to evaluate content, concepts and generalizations on a four point scale is below. To be useful, it must be changed to reflect what the content, concepts and/or generalizations are to be achieved by students in the performance task they are to undertake.

 

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Declarative Knowledge

- shows a lack of understanding, and significant misconceptions about the content, concepts and/or generalizations in the task

- has some misconceptions, and lacks a complete understanding of the content, concepts and/or generalizations in the task

- shows a largely complete and accurate understanding of the content, concepts and/or generalizations in the task

- thoroughly understands all content, concepts and/ or generalizations in the task, and demonstrates insightful extensions to some aspects of the information

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


Appendix 1  (Continued)

Generic Rubric for Procedural Knowledge

 

Below is a generalized rubric for evaluating those skills that are described in the second Overall Expectation in each unit of all Grade 11 Science courses. Again, it is necessary to revise this rubric to make it apply to the specific skills that are involved in the performance task, whether they are manipulative skills or thinking and reasoning skills.

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Procedural Knowledge

- only selects appropriate skills and/or strategies required by the task with much assistance and makes critical errors in applying them

- selects with some assistance, and applies the skills and/or strategies required by the task, but makes a number of non-critical errors in doing so

- selects and applies the appropriate strategies and/or skills specific to the task without significant errors

- selects and applies appropriate strategies and/or skills specific to the task without conscious effort and without error, and applies some in innovative ways

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

 

Collaborative Group Work

This rubric applies to a Learning Skill, and therefore does not lead to a mark on the Provincial Report Card. Refer to the section on Learning Skills (See Overview) for a discussion of the purpose of using this rubric.

Criteria

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

Interpersonal Skills in Group Work

- limited interaction within a group, and shows lack of sensitivity to others’ feelings and abilities in opinions expressed

- some interactions with other group members, but sometimes expresses opinions which are insensitive to the abilities and feelings of others

- interacts with all group members spontaneously and contributes in a way that is sensitive to the abilities and feelings of others

- interacts positively with all group members, encourages such interaction in others, and is always sensitive to the abilities and feelings of others in contributions

Participation to Achieve Group Goals

- shows limited commitment to group goals and  often fails to perform assigned roles

- demonstrates some commitment to group goals, but has difficulty performing assigned roles

- demonstrates commitment to group goals and carries out assigned roles effectively

- actively helps to identify group goals and works effectively to meet them in all roles assumed

 


Appendix 1  (Continued)

 

Criteria

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

Contribution to Group Maintenance

- has difficulty identifying changes needed in group processes, and is reluctant to participate in making those changes identified by others

- identifies some changes needed to improve group processes if prompted, and is minimally involved making those changes

- identifies and helps to make adjustments needed in group processes to improve group effectiveness

- actively works to identify and carry out changes in group processes necessary to maximize group effectiveness

Roles Performed in the Group

- is limited in inclination or ability to perform roles in the group

- willing and able to perform some group roles effectively

- is willing and able to perform most group roles effectively

- volunteers to perform any group role, and does so effectively and creatively

 

Partial Rubric for an Experimental Inquiry

In this sample, four criteria are listed for a scientific inquiry. In the first criterion, Initiating and Planning, four components are listed. Only one of those components, “designs fair test” is expanded in the body of the rubric. A completed rubric would show all four components expanded in detail for all three criteria.

For a particular purpose, however, this partial rubric may be all that is needed – it is not necessary to assess every component of every criterion in every activity the student undertakes! Over the whole course, however, a student should be assessed on all significant criteria which define a scientific inquiry, and all components of each criterion.

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Initiating and Planning

·         formulates question

·         make hypothesis

·         designs fair test*

·         selects equipment and materials

- few variables are identified or controlled.

- some variables are identified; not all significant variables are controlled.

- variables are identified; some significant variables are controlled.

- significant variables are identified and controlled.

Performing and Recording

·         follows procedures

·         collects, records and organizes information*

·         uses appropriate vocabulary

·         follows safe procedures

- collects limited appropriate quantitative and qualitative information; data is poorly organized and displayed

- collects some appropriate quantitative and qualitative information; data is displayed in a partially organized form

- collects sufficient and appropriate quantitative and qualitative information; data is displayed in an organized form

- collects all appropriate qualitative and quantitative information in a skillful manner; data is displayed in a student created and well organized form

 


Appendix 1  (Continued)

 

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Analysing and Interpreting

·         draws valid inferences

·         forms a conclusion which responds to the hypothesis

·         generalizes from experimental results and conclusions to other situations*

- requires considerable support to make generalizations from results and conclusions

- generalizes from results and conclusions in a limited way with some support

- generalizes from results and conclusions to other situations in science with little or no support

- generalizes independently from results and conclusions to situations in other subjects and beyond the school

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

Note: The process outlined above encompasses all elements of what is commonly called Scientific Method and places them in the broader context of inquiry

Partial Rubric for a Research Inquiry

Again, only one component within each criterion is expanded. The Achievement Chart has an expansion of the Communications criterion.

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Initiating and Planning formulates questions

·         states research question*

·         identifies a variety of resources

- requires assistance to formulate a research question

- research question lacks focus; has some relevance to student and is likely to yield sufficient information

- research question is focused, relevant to student; is likely to yield interesting information

- research question is original, creative, focused and relevant to student; likely to yield interesting information

Performing and Recording

·         uses resources to find information

·         records information

·         records sources of information

·         uses appropriate vocabulary

- a few relevant resources are used to find simple information

- an adequate number of relevant resources are used to find reliable, accurate information

- a variety of recent, relevant resources is used to find reliable, valid and accurate information

- a very wide variety of recent, relevant, authoritative resources is used to find reliable, valid, accurate and complex information

 


Appendix 1  (Continued)

Analysing and Interpreting

·         organizes and integrates information in an appropriate format

·         makes conclusions based on information; provides reasons for conclusions

- requires assistance to find and evaluate key information that relates to question; product lacks organization and flow

- finds and evaluates some key information that relates to question; product lacks order or logical sequence

- finds and evaluates key information that relates to question and develops concepts into a well connected product

- finds and evaluates key information that relates to the question and develops concepts into an insightful, original product

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

Marking Scale (Rubric) for Written Report

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Content

Clarity

 

Accuracy

 

 

Integration of source material

 

 

Resource selection

 

- main idea is generally unclear

- facts, ideas and details tend to be inaccurate

- material from sources is poorly blended, pieces may be directly copied

- poor choice of resources; limited support of writing

 

- main idea is recognizable

- facts, ideas and details exhibit some inaccuracies

- material from sources tends not to be well blended; many terms not explained

- some resource material is well chosen and supports writing

 

- main idea is reasonably clear

- facts, ideas and details generally accurate

- material from sources is fairly well blended; some terms explained in own words

- good choice of resource material to support writing

 

- main idea is very clear

- facts, ideas and details are accurate

- material from sources is well blended. Difficult terms are explained in own words

 

- excellent choice of resource material to support writing

Organization

- limited overall logical planning with ideas out of order

- some overall logical planning; some gaps in sequence of ideas

- adequate overall logical planning

- very good overall logical planning and forms well connected text

Use of Language

- weak command of appropriate vocabulary

- fair command of appropriate vocabulary

- good use of appropriate vocabulary including correct scientific terminology

- excellent use of appropriate vocabulary including correct scientific terminology

Conventions

- weak spelling, punctuation, and grammar

- fair spelling, punctuation and grammar

- good spelling, punctuation, and grammar

- excellent spelling, punctuation, and grammar

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

 

 

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