Reviewed by Deb McNabney
Science Educator - retired
While mentoring a young teacher through her first year of chemistry teaching, I’ve had to scramble to explain chemistry fundamentals on the fly. Why didn’t Stop Faking It!: Chemistry Basics come into my life months ago?
Robertson walks the reader through the history of atomic structure, offering supporting hands-on activities. This approach underpins the evidence-based nature of science and models scientific thinking. Following the history lesson are chapters on the periodic table, bonding, conservation of mass, chemical equations, and a smattering of organic chemistry. A glossary at the back of the book defines commonly used chemistry terms. SciLinks are embedded throughout the chapters, offering additional in-depth resources for teachers.
Despite its potentially intimidating subject matter, this is an easy read thanks to Robertson’s humorous and coherent writing style. His use of analogies provides positively reinforcing “Aha” moments. Even though I am a seasoned veteran of analogy use, I found new twists and ideas that I’m now using in my eighth-grade chemistry class. This book is an excellent resource for concept instruction/review for new and veteran teachers. And I’m passing it on to my young colleague!
Review posted on 5/15/2007
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