Mastery in analyzing and interpreting data are among the STEM skills considered essential for excelling in the sciences. The development of these skills is aided by performing experiments that students can easily connect to their everyday lives. We developed a multiweek course embedded undergraduate research experience (CURE) for General Chemistry I and II where students test the quality of local water resources. In General Chemistry I students determine the amount of nitrate and phosphate in their water sample and present their findings in the form of a poster. In General Chemistry II students determine the hardness and total alkalinity of their water sample and present their findings in a formal lab report. This presentation will provide an overview of the nuts and bolts of the CURE project, as well as presenting data illustrating the impact of the CURE on students’ ability to analyze an interpret experimental data.

What’s in your water? A CURE for general chemistry students

ACS Fall 2021

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