For Teachers
Activity 2B (Reading)
What Is Organic Chemistry?
| Lesson Overview | This reading introduces students to the concept of organic chemistry. |
| Learning Objectives |
The objective of the lesson is to clarify the difference between the word organic as used by chemists and as used in everyday speech. In addition, it touches on the common notions of “natural” and “synthetic” substances, which are further addressed in the activity Synthetic vs. Natural: What’s the Difference? |
| Lesson Concepts |
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| Materials Required | No special materials are required. |
| Skills Required | No special skills are required. |
| Time Required | 10–15 minutes. |
| Student Ability Level and Grouping | This lesson is suitable for students of all levels. |
| Notes | This reading is meant to dovetail with the reading Synthetic vs. Natural: What’s the Difference? |
| Assessment | Not required. The students’ understanding that organic molecules are carbon based can be assessed by discussing whether selected compounds (sugar, petroleum, benzene) are organic or not, based on descriptions of their chemical composition. |
| Standards |
This activity meets the following National Science Education Standards (Grades 5-8) and Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. National Science Education Standards (Grades 5-8) Physical Science
Science and Technology
History and Nature of Science
Curriculum Standards for Social Studies
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