This blog is designed to benefit itinerant TVIs working with a student in a high school chemistry class. It offers a comprehensive list that includes clear descriptions of the appropriate tools to purchase for the year and an overview of what steps to take to prepare for the year would be of value.
Products to Purchase
I recommend buying these items in the spring if possible, in preparation for a class the following fall.
This is a fairly expensive investment but may be available through a Region Service Center. Some schools use the LabQuest already, in which case the probes wouldn’t have to be purchased.
Talking Scientific Calculator (if student doesn’t already have one) – Several are available. Also see app section below for (almost) free app.
Talking Scale – These are available from a number of vendors, such as Independent Living Aids and Maxi Aids. Kitchen scales may be the most useful for the classroom, although talking bathroom scales are available too.
Wikki Stix – Very useful for a quick raised line – Order lots!
Glue gun and mini-glue sticks These will also come in very handy for preparing quick models. Available at any craft store.
Read over the AZER guidebook yourself at the beginning of the year.
Make adaptations to the Periodic Table using Wikki Stix to make it easier for braille students to use the table. The following may be helpful in doing so:
Watch the following 2 short videos (approximately 5 minutes each) by Greg Williams, a chemist who is blind, in order to become more comfortable with organizing and setting up the lab environment for a student who is visually impaired:
Meet with the teacher and, using his/her syllabus, discuss when each of the adapted products will be be needed. If possible leave the materials with the teacher or plan to deliver them at least two weeks prior to instruction on the related content.
Introduce the student to the Azer Model and features of the atom prior to the introduction of the atom in class.
Store the protons, neutrons, and electron pieces in a manner that he/she can easily access. I use ziplock bags to store the subatomic particles in but I put each subatomic particle (protons, neutrons, and electrons) in separate small cups while the students are building the atoms.
This post provides general tips for adapting other science instruction. While it is not specific to chemistry, the general suggestions are concise and helpful.