In the Blog-Zone

Now that you're all in the Blog-Zone with me (most of you), let's think about Chemistry and how it's being used in the world. I can think of lots of ways that people have used their chemistry powers for evil, can't you? Actually, when you think about THAT, it gets kind of scary. What I'd rather focus on, is how chemistry is being used for good. Spend just a few moments thinking about that. . . how is chemistry, right now, being used to help others, to make the world better, or to solve problems?

I'd like you to write a post for your blog about your thoughts. Create a two-paragraph post by responding to one of the following two items:

1) Name and elaborate slightly on five general ways or areas you can think of in which chemistry powers are currently being used "for good." (No specific names or details.) Which of these ideas interests you the most? Why?

2) Some science exploration occurs to accomplish really "cool" things which may not seem to have real application or bring good to mankind. (Like "how close can I get to the sun before my satellite and camera burn up?" or "how does that ocean creature maintain it's phosphorescent glow in pitch-black ocean depths?") Do you think this has any benefit? What do you think of scientists who spend so much of their lives pursuing these random questions? Is this worth investing in?

If you like both of these ideas and don't like having to choose - never fear. . . you'll write again! For this assignment, though, choose one item and produce two paragraphs of reflective, thoughtful writing about it.

Secondly, visit three other classmates' blogs and read their posts about being part of a learning community. Leave a comment on each blog about something you either a) agree about or b) want to add to the discussion. At the end of your post, leave me a note about which three classmates' blogs you left comments on.

So. . . a two-part assignment. Please complete this by 9:00 AM EST on Friday, December 14.

See you in the Zone.

Ms. V