Through support of the NSF GK-12 program at the University of Southern Mississippi, a graduate research assistant and a high school chemistry teacher collaborated to develop a lesson and a lab to introduce high school students to the fundamental principles of fiber reinforced polymer composites research. The lab challenged students to design the strongest composite structure possible with the least amount of construction materials, and it guided them through scientific methodology and the process of writing formal lab reports. These activities were designed to simulate authentic research practices in academia and industry. The presenters will share their experiences in developing and implementing the unit, as well as the results of its effectiveness in the high school classroom.

Aerospace composites and the scientific method: Supporting high school classroom curriculum with real-world applications

249th National Meeting (2015)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.