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Acrostic Puzzles in the Classroom

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Dorothy Swain

Marshfield High School, Coos Bay, OR 97420

J. Chem. Educ., 2006, 83 (4), p 589

DOI: 10.1021/ed083p589

Publication Date (Web): April 1, 2006

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

Acrostic puzzles are an effective vehicle to expose students to the history and philosophy of science without lecturing. Students need to use all of their knowledge to solve these puzzles, not just what they have learned in science classes. Students practice word-recall skills, spelling, and pattern recognition. Afterwards, they have a stimulating science-related quotation to think about, as well as the name of a noted thinker. The quotations can provide a common background of "wisdom" that the instructor can draw on when trying to explain difficult concepts throughout the year.

Keywords (Audience):

First-Year Undergraduate / General

Keywords (Domain):

History / Philosophy

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Humor / Puzzles / Games

Keywords (Subject):

Atomic Properties / Structure

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