“Do a Demo” Project – for IB HL Chemistry
This required demonstration is an opportunity for you to identify, research, practice, and
communicate about an interesting – and safe - demonstration that highlights a particular chemistry
concept. The project score is based on 100 points and must be completed by Dec 10th, 2010.
[The project points will be scaled down so that it represents the points equal to about 2 lab grades.]
(1)
Select your demo.
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Your teacher has a number of chemistry demo books that provide safe (but still exciting)
demos on a variety of topics. Take some time to look through these and request copies of
ones that interest you.
The internet may be used as a resource – but beware. Only get ideas from credible sources!
Safety is a critical issue. Goggles are required, lab aprons may be appropriate, as may
gloves… and in some cases a ‘shield’ or use of the hood may be necessary.
Demos are intended to be done individually. If you need extra assistance, feel free to ask for
audience participation. [If you have an idea for a demo that would involve multiple people,
feel free to ask your teacher. There’s always a slim chance it could be approved.]
Here are some topics that will be addressed this semester:
Kinetics; Equilibrium; Acids and Bases; Oxidation and Reduction;
Topics second semester will include Organic Chemistry; Medicines & Drugs; Food
Chemistry
Review topics are also welcome, particularly Energetics.
(2)
Seek approval from your chemistry teacher.
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(3)
Practice your demo.
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(4)
You are responsible for all of the set up and clean up associated with your demo. This may
require that you prepare solutions, assemble equipment, etc.
You must practice your demo in front of your teacher at least once successfully before
performing the demo for your class.
As you practice your demo, you may find you need to make adjustments in the procedure.
Document these. You will need to turn in a written copy of the procedure you actually use…
with references cited.
Develop a clear, accurate scientific explanation for the chemistry behind your demo. You will
need to turn in a written copy of the explanation… with references cited.
The demo must be visible to the entire class. Consider using technology (i.e. Ladibug, Light
Box) if your demo needs it.
Arrange a time to present your demonstration to the class.
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(5)
The demo must be a ‘proven’, safe demonstration – to establish this, you must find a
reputable source for the demo. Submit a copy of this to your teacher for approval…. with the
source clearly cited. Your teacher will look it over and either approve it as is…. or talk with
you about specific concerns.
Your demo must use equipment, materials, chemicals, etc. that we have at Palmer. (There
may be some opportunity to purchase some chemicals if we don’t currently have them in
stock. There are some chemicals that are prohibited from use at the high school level! You
won’t be allowed to use these! )
Schedule this with your teacher.
Do not leave this until the last minute… as your teacher may limit the number of
demonstrations on a particular day.
Do your demo and submit all your paperwork to receive your grade.
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Be sure to leave time for clean up!
Paperwork = Procedure and Explanation – with references cited.
Name: _______________________________ Date: __________ Pd: ____
“Do a Demo” Project Grade Sheet
Do NOT lose this piece of paper! Signatures may be difficult to replace 
Components
Points
Source of Demo:
___ Research Source(s) __ credible __ Informative
10
Approval of the Demo*:
Signature of your teacher: _____________________ Date: ________
10
Practicing the Demo*:
Signature of your teacher: _____________________ Date: ________
10
Demo – Write-Up :
___ procedure (adjusted from source, as needed)
__ clear; repeatable
20
__ reference cited
___ explanation
__ clear; accurate
__ reference cited
Demo – Presentation :
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demonstrated safely & clearly
appealing to audience
understandable, accurate explanation of the chemistry
concept(s) at work.
50
Notes :
Total Points 100
Student
Score
Teacher
Score