What a beautiful connection to family life!

I found this lesson fascinating. In addition to having a strong connection to new families, the topic evokes memories and experiences that span the generations - diaper change! The topic alo... See More

I found this lesson fascinating. In addition to having a strong connection to new families, the topic evokes memories and experiences that span the generations - diaper change! The topic alone is engaging and sure to tie pupils interest with this hands-on learning. I especially liked the approach for the scientific method, controlling all the independent variables and increasing the quantity of the NaCl concentration in the "urine." This would make a wonderful lead in to a science project conversation in independent/dependent variables, collecting data with a table, displaying results in graphical form for analys. Thanks to the author bringing such a ubiquitous object and planting it firming in front of inquiring minds.

Explpring invention & Chemistry Disposable Diaper

1st The humor aspect of the activity is great. It get everyone interested. 2nd. THe background was good but an additional paragraph or two on the history would be nice to give credit where... See More

1st The humor aspect of the activity is great. It get everyone interested. 2nd. THe background was good but an additional paragraph or two on the history would be nice to give credit where it belongs, and a little more on the environmental history problems that this diper displaved. The original diaper was not biodegradeable, and the problem was much worse that the article depicts. 3rd) Explinations were clear, the Lab was very practicle and easy material to get from home. NICE! 4th) NIce practical worksheet and followup with the two day lab. This can be easily modified to make it more difficult or less. 5th) The key part of the learning experience for the teacher is the explination of spdium polyacrylate. The diagram is great, but this is why I gave it a 4, and not a 5. This section must be at least one step more in the isolation fo how the molecule is made, and more on how it is broken down.