No one likes kidney stones, but they are very interesting to learn about. The last installment of a three-part unit has learners experiment with different chemicals to see which one inhibits the growth of calcium oxalate crystals (which kidney stones are composed of). They use microscopes to observe the growth of these crystals.

Concepts

kidneys, crystals, crystal formation, medicine

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Team up with a biology or chemistry teacher

Classroom Considerations

• A set of microscopes is necessary, as well as other materials
• There are two ways to conduct the activity; decide which method is best based on available class time

Pros

• Includes detailed instructions
• Provides worksheets for the activity

Cons

• Activity requires a variety of expensive chemicals, which may not be available in the classroom setting