Polymers are an essential part of our everyday lives, yet many students don’t know what they are or how they work. Teaching students about polymers can help them understand the world around them and improve their critical thinking skills.
Polymers are long chains of repeating molecules that can be found in many everyday materials, including plastics, rubber, and textiles. These materials play a crucial role in modern life, from the packaging that keeps our food fresh to the clothes we wear.
To teach students about polymers, it’s important to start by explaining what they are and how they’re made. Students should understand that polymers are formed when small molecules called monomers are linked together to create long chains.
One way to help students understand this concept is by using a simple activity called “Build a Polymer.” In this activity, students can create their polymer by linking together paper clips, beads, or other small objects. This visual representation helps students understand the process of polymerization and how it creates materials with new properties and characteristics.
Another way to teach students about polymers is by showing them their everyday applications. For example, a trip to the grocery store can be an opportunity to talk about how polymers are used in food packaging to keep products fresh and safe.
Students can also examine different polymer-based products and investigate their properties. For instance, they can experiment with different types of plastics to see how they melt, stretch, and break under different conditions.
Finally, students should also understand how polymers impact the environment. Polymers, particularly single-use plastics like water bottles, can contribute to pollution and harm wildlife. By learning about this issue, students can become more informed consumers and environmental advocates.
