Hydrophilic Polymers Discussion Starters


Discussion Starters - Educational Innovations BlogYour students may already be aware of some ways that hydrophilic polymers are used in our daily lives.  For instance, Sodium Polyacrylate is an essential component of disposable diapers, and Growing Spheres are often used by florists as a soil-free way to store water and keep cut flowers fresh for a long time.

But what else can hydrophilic polymers do?  The answer is, plenty!

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Hydrophilic Polymers Humor


Science Humor - Educational Innovations NewsletterIt’s not that easy to find jokes about superabsorbent hydrophilic polymers… unless you have a dry sense of humor.  (Get it?)  Why not insert a bit of humor into your next quiz or homework page?  Extra points for students who guess the right answers to our riddles!

If you have a favorite cartoon or joke, we invite you to share it as a comment below.

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You Said It! Hydrophilic Product Reviews


You Said It! Product Reviews - Educational Innovations NewsletterWhat do artificial snow and baby diapers have in common?  Some folks may scratch their heads, but if you’re a science teacher you probably already know the answer(s):  they both contain sodium polyacrylate, and they both fall into the fascinating category of SAPs—superabsorbent polymers.  These polymers simply LOVE water!

This edition of our newsletter is all about hydrophilic, or water loving, materials.  We’re proud to share these comments from science loving teachers!

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UV Sensitive Putty: Wonder and Curiosity in a Can


Electricity from Mud?! Educational Innovations Blogby Nancy Foote

It’s always fun to put a new item on the curiosity table to see how my students will react.  The newest addition was Arctic Flare UV Sensitive Putty, a gift from our friends at Educational Innovations.

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An Introduction to the Plasma Globe


Donna Giachetti, Educational Innovationsby Donna Giachetti

I have the great fortune of working for a company that inspires—indeed, requires—me to learn something new every day.  I’m constantly scouring online science journals for tidbits on the latest in nanotechnology, the wonders of electrochemistry, or even something as relatively simple as the ultraviolet spectrum.

 
I’m not claiming I always understand everything I learn… but I try my best.  (Hey, I was an English major in college, so I’m not as scientifically inclined as most of my colleagues.)  Luckily, I can count on my trusty coworkers to help me out.

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