STEMhs

Chemophobia: Demystifying Chemistry in the News

Are you curious or concerned, about Pesticides on your Produce, BPA in your water bottle, “Forever Chemicals” in your food, or Iodine in the water supply? Should we pay more for Organic foods? Should we panic over ingredients we can’t pronounce?

Introduction

Explore the chemistry of everyday items, from groceries to household products and their depiction in media. This expedition examines the real impact of chemicals on our lives, challenging misconceptions and revealing the truths behind common substances.

Participants will study the molecular structures and properties of “familiar chemicals”, understanding their integration into daily products through chemical bonding. They'll critically analyze media representations, distinguishing scientifically accurate information from marketing tactics.

Students will create articles or presentations that accurately communicate the science behind misunderstood chemicals, enhancing their scientific literacy and empowering them to educate others.

Through this journey, participants replace chemophobia with knowledge and confidence, equipped to make informed decisions and navigate a chemically complex world.

Important Information: This expedition is the Cycle 2 Chemistry Pathway expedition option

Essential Questions

Are chemicals in food harmful to humans or the environment?
How are different substances classified?
What makes a substance or chemical pure?
How does Chemistry impact the use of everyday substances?
Why are certain substances used for specific purposes and not others?
What are the functions that occur to bond atoms together into molecules?
How does the arrangement of molecules impact their properties?
Why is it important to understand and model molecular structure? How does this influence the molecule’s interactions with the outside world?

Learning Objectives

Describe the pH scale, its meaning, and how pH is determined in a substance.
Identify substances as acids or bases based on their pH and characteristics.
Differentiate between pure substances and mixtures.
Define and explain common use of the terms electrolyte and solution.
Explain the function of chemical bonding.
Identify and describe intermolecular forces.
Describe and differentiate between Ionic, Covalent, and Metallic bonds.
Model and provide evidence of molecular polarity.
Create and use Lewis Structures.