BOOK (Chem Demos Vol. I: 10 Cheap, Practical, Curious, and Aligned Chem Demos)

This handbook offers 10 fun and engaging chemistry demonstrations that are easy to set up, affordable, and aligned with both Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and AP Chemistry Learning Objectives. Each demo is designed to spark curiosity with a guiding question—no fancy titles—just the questions students will naturally ask when they see the experiment in action.

For example:

• Why is the flame changing color? (Linked to electronic structure) involves a simple setup using a toothpick and table salt to explore how different chemicals affect flame color.
• Why does the pepper move? (Exploring intermolecular forces) asks students to observe the reaction when liquid detergent is placed in water sprinkled with pepper.

Each demo includes a list of materials, clear instructions, and a suggested 5E Learning Cycle flow to guide classroom discussion. To deepen inquiry, the book also draws connections between the 5E phases and Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, emphasizing the adventure of learning. Whether you're teaching NGSS or AP Chemistry, this collection will help you inspire students with hands-on, thought-provoking chemistry!