The presentation will be beneficial to those teaching polymers for the first time and those wanting to beef-up traditional polymer labs. Polymer activities are often used for "fun" lab days and learning opportunities are not maximized. We will show how to add variables and science process skills to make labs more inquiry-based.<br/><br/>A common polymer activity is making slime. We have added the variable of changing the amount of borax solution used. Students investigate the difference that hydrogen bonding makes in the properties by comparing the different slimes. They select the "perfect" slime and defend their choice in terms of properties and uses. Other lab extensions are provided.<br/><br/>Shrinking plastic is a popular polymer activity. We have enhanced the lab by adding math calculations which lead to making a student product. Geometric figures are cut from polystyrene, measurements made, and area calculated before and after the shrinking process. Percent reduction is calculated. Students design a product, draw it actual size, and use their measurements and calculations to determine the proper dimensions for the beginning piece of plastic.

Polymers: New twists on old favorites

249th National Meeting (2015)

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