This is a unit on Applied Chemistry. We will discuss theoretical aspects of how a washing detergent works. Students will design their own experiments to compare the performance of different detergents. They will analyse their results and write up scientific reports. We will discuss factors that affect the cost of detergents and students may be required to work in a group to produce a commercial for a detergent with specific characteristics. Students will gain an appreciation of factors that need to be considered when purchasing a washing detergent.
Learning targets
The laundry Detergent Investigation (time permitting)
- Understands how a washing detergent works
- Understands the difference between a biological and non-biological detergent
- Can describe the advantages/disadvantages of different types of washing detergent
- Can explain the function of enzymes, perfumes and optical brighteners
- Gains experience of designing and carrying out an investigation to find the ‘best’ washing detergent
- Can describe the factors affecting the cost of detergents
Saint Maur Essential Outcomes
Moral Citizens
- The importance of academic honesty and correct referencing/ citation of sources
- Honesty and integrity in the reporting of data is vital.
Unique Individuals
- The importance of thinking for yourself
- Appreciating that making mistakes is an opportunity to learn
- Asking yourself ‘What do I need to do to be a good scientist?’
Global Citizens
- The use of internationally established scientific standards.
- Recognition that the use of symbols and equations is an internationally recognized ‘language’.
- The scientific community has certain common principles, methods and understandings that provide a framework for their endeavours.
Balanced Learners
- Communicating efficiently – concisely and precisely in oral presentations and lab reports
Life-Long Learners (Communicative Learners, Inquiring Learners, Collaborative learners, Resilient Learners, Reflective Learners, Open Minded Learners)
- The importance of basing decisions on sufficient reliable evidence.
- Careful observation and recognition of patterns of behaviour allows us to make predictions about the behaviour of the natural world.
- Different points of view may be based on different evidence