Carbon Chemistry

Carbon Chemistry by McHenry, Ellen Johnston. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780982537725.

Carbon Chemistry is an introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry for ages 9-14. It is intended as a follow-up to "The Elements" by the same author, but can be used separately if the student has some basic knowledge of chemistry and the Periodic Table. The first section is a student booklet of eleven chapters, covering topics such as the carbon atom, hydrocarbons, alkanes and alkenes, functional groups, soaps, plastics, rubber, nylon, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, DNA and the carbon cycle. Despite the "heavy" nature of the topics, the text is light, easy-to-read and even humorous in many places. Some written activities and review questions are provided at the end of each chapter. The second section is a teachers guide that provides additional activities including games, songs, recipes, experiments, skits, and crafts.