This lesson is an introduction to chemistry. Specifically, the exciting world of polymers! Students will learn what a polymer is, and how chemists design materials to do a variety of jobs. Students will review scientific terms including atoms, states of matter, monomer, and polymer, and discuss how the properties of objects and materials can change. Students will be given chemicals to make a polymer and see demonstrations of how the same material can do a variety of amazing jobs.
Science Standards:
1.PS.1: Properties of objects and materials can change
3.PS.1: All objects and substances in the natural world are composed of matter. Matter takes up space and has mass.
3.PS.3: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
STEM Emerging Technology Connections:
Advanced Materials: By learning how polymers are built and how their structure affects their properties, students get a basic but essential introduction to material science. This is crucial for the DoD's work in developing new materials for everything from lightweight armor to flexible electronics.