American Chemistry Council: History of Polymers & Plastics for Teachers

After reading about polymer materials, engineer trainees examine how plastics have been integrated into everyday products. In groups, they compile a list of products made entirely without plastics and then, as a closing activity, try to...

All plastics contain polymers, but not all polymers are plastic. Young chemists make their own polymer and compare the properties to those of other states of matter. After a reading passage, pupils answer analysis questions about natural...

First, young chemists practice polymer identification by density and flame tests. With the data collected, they propose a method of separating polyethylene from other plastics and determine what property makes it desirable for recycling....

Venture into the world of macromolecules with three exciting, distinct laboratory activities. Young chemists examine the forms of carbon and discover how they are associated with atomic arrangement, construct models of carbon-containing...

Present polymers to your chemistry class with this practical PowerPoint. Begin with a definition and the properties of polymer materials. Branch out into diagrams of polymer structure. Consider the two general types: addition polymers...

This resource presents a brief guide introduces the history, structure, and characteristics of plastics and polymers.

This resource provides detailed general information about plastics.

This site provides the background on the applications of the plastics industry. General in nature, but a good look at where plastic is in your life. Gives solid factual information.

This resource provides an introduction to plastics chemistry, from the basic elements involved, to bonding, plastic types, and production methods.

This resource provides information about what polymers are and their properties.