Science Basics - Introduction to Chemistry

Chemistry is one of the pillars of middle school science. Your student will be introduced to chemistry through a mix of hands-on experience with classic classroom preparation in this course. 

We will break apart each concept, look at the parts, and combine them to see the whole picture. There will be drawings, hands-on activities, and opportunities to practice concepts for better understanding. Each week will focus on a specific idea, and there will be an opportunity for practice and exploring ideas between classes. 

⭐Week 1 
The Atom - Subatomic Particles (proton, neutron, and electron)
In week 1, we will start with the basic building block of matter, an atom! We use different atom models, identify subatomic particles and their charges, and understand how to draw or model atoms of specific elements. 

⭐Week 2
Atoms, Elements, and Compounds 
In week 2, we will discuss chemical versus physical combinations, pure substances, how elements combine to make new substances (molecules), and the basics of bonding (covalent and ionic bonding).

⭐Week 3 
Reading the Periodic Table of Elements
In week 3, we will discuss basic vocabulary associated with the periodic table of elements, such as atomic number, atomic mass, and chemical symbol. We will also practice calculating the number of protons and neutrons in a specific element and then discussing groups and trends in the periodic table. 

⭐Week 4 
Density and Other Physical Properties - How to Identify an Unknown Substance
In week 4, we will practice identifying elements using their physical and chemical properties, such as density. We will spend more time on density, what it is, calculate it, and use it to identify elements and compounds. 

⭐Week 5 
The Law of Conservation of Mass and Balancing Equations (Basic)
In week 5, we will discuss chemical equations, the law of conservation of mass, and balance simple equations. Your student may want a manipulative such as candy (skittles, M&M's, or multicolor candy) or beads for this activity.