Innovating Science® - Properties of Polymers

Polymers affect every aspect of our daily lives. From the plastics we use to the clothes we wear; polymer chemistry is everywhere. In this kit, students will perform three fun and fascinating activities involving polymers. In the first two activities, students will perform a cross-linking procedure on polymers to create polymer "worms" and the classic "slime." In the third activity, students will investigate the properties of a super-absorbent polymer, capable of absorbing hundreds of times its own weight in water, to create instant "polymer snow." The kit contains enough materials for 15 groups. Teacher's Manual and Student Study Guide copymasters are included.

Aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)*

Disciplinary Core Ideas: PS1.A; PS1.B
Performance Expectations: MS-PS1-2; MS-PS1-3; HS-PS1-2; HS-PS2-6
Cross Cutting Concepts: Structure and Function; Patterns
Engineering Practices: Analyzing and Interpreting Data; Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information

Kit Includes:
1 x 4g Sodium Alginate (Alginic Acid)
1 x 30mL Calcium Chloride Concentrate
4 x 250mL Polyvinyl Alcohol, 3%
1 x 200mL Sodium Borate, 4%
1 x 35g Sodium Polyacrylate Powder (snow)
45 Clear Plastic Cups
15 Graduated Measuring Cups, 30mL
15 Plastic Pipettes, 1mL

DOT Info:
Non-regulated

*"Next Generation Science Standards" is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards was involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.