MILK PRESERVATIVES : HEALTHY OR DANGEROUS?

This WebQuest is designed to be used after an initial introduction to the by the teacher to science chemistry. It is hoped that after this brief introduction the teacher will act as only a facilitator during the rest of the process. This WebQuest will take about 2 classes to complete the research aspect and perhaps another 2 classes to produce the final report. Alternatively the report can be completed as homework. 

 

Groups can be either chosen by the students (although I find that this sometimes leads to "stacked" groups) or by the teacher. Depending on the class size, group size could range from 3-4. Each group will be responsible for covering one aspect of science chemistry suggested in the Task.

 

Depending on the types and quantity of technology in your school, teachers may have to adapt the process accordingly. Both teachers and students involved should be familiar with internet searches. I think that you will find that most students if they are not familiar with the use of technology, will quickly adapt and soon become experts. Each group should have an excess to a computer for both their initial information gathering and the development of their presentations. If access to computers is limited, the WebQuest can be completed using textbooks for information searching and more traditional ways of classroom presentation (ie. posters, overheads, etc.).

 

Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills.

 

Aims

• provide opportunities for scientific study and creativity within global contexts which will stimulate and challenge students

• enable students to apply and use a body of knowledge and methods/techniques which characterize science and technology
  

• develop an ability to analyze, evaluate and synthesize scientific information

• engender an awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

• raise awareness of the moral/ethical, social, economic and environmental implications of using science and technology

• develop and appreciation of possibilities and limitations associated with science and scientists.

 

 

The evaluation covers how well the students spent their time while completing their task, how well each student worked individually and as a member of their group, how well their lab report was written and how well their final report was completed. You will see that the final report is worth twice the other assessment criteria.

 

In the evaluation I have accounted for much more than just the completion of the research and the production of the final product. I wanted to see the connections and the extensions that students could create. I am looking for a more authentic assessment model, where the thought process and development of the student are as important, if not more so.

 

You can adapt the specific requirements in any area depending on the level of your organic chemistry to be covered and the specific course that you will use this for.

 

I believe that this WebQuest provides an alternative to the more traditional way of covering classroom material - notes and questions. It allows students to take an active role in problem solving and development of a viable solution.

 

By performing this task, students will be working in groups, thus developing group participation skills. The students will be dealing with a situation that is quite real in today's environment. This will allow them to make real decisions  and create real solutions to real problems. Hopefully this will make them more accountable for their own actions.

 

The WebQuest design means that students will be much more responsible for their own learning. Students will also be exposed to many different forms of technology as a result of completing these tasks. This benefit is immeasurable.

 

Learner Characteristics

Diverse curriculum needs

Want to know why they are learning something

Want to know the relevance of what they are learning to their life

Have a wide age and maturity range

Have diverse educational backgrounds

Discrepancies in motivation

Different reasons for being in school