This article describes a new interdisciplinary learning program for junior high school students based on the science, technology, and society (STS) approach. The program emphasizes the macro–micro view of materials and consolidates understanding of the structures of materials through the context of fibers. Its aims are to construct the basic concepts of the structures, properties, and applications of materials and the relationship among them with regard to fabrics, threads, fibers, polymers, and composites; to cultivate scientific and technological literacy; and to develop students' learning and inquiry capabilities.
The program interweaves knowledge and skills using scientific investigations, design processes, project-based learning, field trips, and STS dilemmas. It also offers knowledge integration tools such as a dynamic concept map and knowledge organizer. The design and instructional approach of the program we discuss may be helpful to other educators in developing STS-based learning materials.
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Examples of project topics, methodologies used, and an example student project are available.
The "Chemistry Teacher Connection" (CTC) is especially for high school chemistry teachers. For only $40/year, it offers an online-only subscription to CLIC along with membership in the Division of Chemical Education, normally $65/year. CTC subscribers receive access to all articles and supplements from 1996 through the current issue.
Through special arrangement with the ACS, JCE High School CLIC is now able to provide subscribers with online access to Chemical & Engineering News articles that have been selected specifically for secondary science instructors and their students.
Occasionally, collections of JCE back issues become available for donation to individual teachers, schools, or libraries. JCE matches collections with interested recipients. Recipients pay shipping costs or pick up the collection.
For journals in other fields of chemistry visit ACS Publications.
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