Solutions in Green Chemistry
An Introduction to Green Chemistry in the High School.
The Solutions in Green Chemistry Curriculum Module was developed by Pfizer and Beyond Benign to introduce teachers and their students to the topic of Green Chemistry, explore green chemistry technologies and to provide a hands-on inquiry based unit in which high school students can explore this emerging approach to chemical manufacturing.
The curriculum unit has three focused goals, firstly, to encourage teachers to convert their laboratory classrooms to use green methodologies. Secondly to think differently about the way that they deliver content to students and to put that content into the context of sustainability and lastly but most importantly to inspire student to get excited about chemistry and the possibilities it holds for solving societies problems in the future. Section 4 in this curriculum is designed to be a simulation of business methodology in which students will be challenged to create a product that adheres to the 12 principles of green chemistry. In this way, students apply their new knowledge in meaningful ways and are put in the role of decision maker when the decisions are often difficult and require higher order thinking.
The curriculum goal is to spark students’ interest in chemistry in general and to introduce students to the newest way of approaching chemical processes. The unit will also give students the critical thinking skills and tools to evaluate possible actions and multiple points of view as they grow into adults.
Begin by reading a more detailed introduction and exploring the suggested lesson delivery schedule. Then download the following individual lesson plans. Please note that the lesson plans are available in both English and Spanish.
Section One: What is Green Chemistry
- Defining Sustainability [Document]
- Opinion Activity [Document]
- Recipe Rescue [Document]
- Synonyms Simplify [Document]
- What is Green Chemistry? [Document] [PowerPoint]
- Atom Economy [Document] [PowerPoint]
- Chemical Considerations [Document]
- Risk and Benefit [Document]
Section Two
- A Chemistry Teacher's Footprint [Document] [PowerPoint]
- Think Different - Teacher's Version [Document]
- Vinylbenzyl Thymine is VBT [Document]
Section Three: A Green Chemistry Research & Development Activity
- Trick out my Wheels [Document] [Flash]
- Safety Science with Matty Hazard [Document]
- Is a Pig Ment to be Colorful, part one [Document]
- Is a Pig Ment to be Colorful, part two [Document]
- Is a Pig Ment to be Colorful, part three [Document]
- Streak Freak, part one [Document]
- Build it Again Sam [Document] [PowerPoint]
- Bothersome Binder [Document]
- Is a Pig Ment to be Colorful, part four [Document]
- Streak Freak, part two [Document]
- Perfection in Paint [Document]
- Packaging Problems [Document]
- Waste of Space [Document]
- Represent [Document]
- Making Choices Decision Grid [Document]
- Renewables [PowerPoint]
- The Price is Right [PowerPoint]
More to Come
Assessment
For any questions about the content or use of these teaching materials please contact .
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Our summer newsletter is available! Each issue will include interviews, reviews and discussions on a wide range of Green Chemistry topics. Written for a wide audience, our newsletter will be easily accessible and includes items and ideas that can be used in classroom settings, in the home and in the research laboratory.
MoreQuick Reference, Handouts & Posters
- What is Green Chemistry? - Flyer
- Green Chemistry...Of Course - Mini-Poster
- E-Factor Experiment - Handout
- Green Chemistry Educator Licensure Program - Summary Page
- the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry - Poster
(Some materials are provided in PDF format)

