Ready to cover chemistry? You can do it! The best way to cover chemistry at a high school level is through experimentation. Here is a free public domain book that can guide you: A School Chemistry by O. J. Flecker.
Of course, covering chemistry requires chemicals. It goes without saying, caution is in order. Begin by establishing the safety ground rules.
Next up will be to locate the supplies before starting. The supplies needed in A School Chemistry should be relatively easy to find. A simple basic beginners’ chemistry set should do most of the work for you.
We have had great luck with Thames & Kosmos kits, though we have not used this particular beginning chemistry set. Check our four favorite science suppliers for more help. You may find a better quality set for a more reasonable price.
A microscope is a great investment. Now would be a great time!
One drawback of this particular text is that it does not come with a handy supply list. Unfortunately, you’ll need to create your own as you preview — something you will want to do in any case.
Through 112 experiments or lessons the author explains concepts simply and clearly. He obviously loves his subject. Concepts covered include:
- Solutions.
- Crystals.
- Chemical change.
- Conservation of mass.
- The properties of gasses.
- Oxides.
- Acids, bases, and salts.
- Equivalent weights.
- Chlorides.
- Atomic weights.
The back of the book includes atomic weights and log tables (feel free to use a calculator).
There are high school chemistry courses online — some of which are free. There are also modern high school chemistry texts available. But if you are interested in doing it yourself, you’ll find A School Chemistry a great start!
Free eBook
Suggestions
- There are 112 experiments or lessons. If you take two years to cover the material, you can tackle two lessons each week. This strategy provides time to really get into the lessons and think (rather than just work through the material).
- Keep a notebook. Pretty crucial with this type of text.
- Use experiment sheets and follow the scientific method.
- Use drawing and writing paper to illustrate concepts, describe the experiments, and narrate the findings.
Additional Resources
High School Chemistry Study Guide
Nice summary of introductory material covered in many early chemistry texts, such as the metric system, abbreviations, math, etc.
A School Chemistry by Waddell
Another option specifically aimed at high school students…but not as interesting.
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