Lesson plan based on Amphora

Determine the principles of oxidation, reduction, and the color properties of iron—based compounds.

Skills and Focus: Chemistry, Earth Sciences

Subject Area: Science

Thematic Connection: Connecting Past and Present

Grade Level: Secondary School

Time Needed: 45 minutes

Objectives

• Understand the principles behind oxidation and reduction.

• Understand the technology used to make ancient Greek slipped pottery as an application of chemistry.

Instructional Materials Needed

Story: How Was This Made?

Noble, J. V. The Technique of Attic Painted Pottery. London: Thames and Hudson, 1988.

Activity

Step 1: After watching How Was This Made?, discuss the principles of oxidation and reduction, and the different compounds that result from exposing ferric oxide in the clay (Fe2O3) to an oxidizing versus a reducing environment.

Equations
Reducing	Fe2O3 + CO	2FeO + CO2
Oxidizing	4 FeO + O2	2Fe2O3

Step 2: The CO concentration was increased by introducing green wood into the kiln, and shutting off the source of O. Ask students why this would yield a reducing environment. If possible, replicate the above reactions experimentally in the classroom to demonstrate the color change.

Goals

This assignment meets Illinois State Goal 12: Have a working knowledge of the fundamental concepts and principles of the life, physical, and earth/space sciences and their connections.

This assignment meets Illinois State Goal 13: Have a working knowledge of the relationships among science, technology, and society.

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