About the Course
Why do some plastic containers melt in the microwave while others don't? What makes Silly Putty stretchy? How are packing peanuts made? Chemicals are key to answering these questions, and in this course, you'll examine how their structure can determine the properties and behaviors of gems and polymers. Starting with the most basic building blocks, atoms, you'll learn about ions and compounds, and grow crystals like salt and rock candy in the lab, marveling at how small changes in structures of gems can cause dramatic changes in shapes and colors. You'll also synthesize slime or Silly Putty to investigate molecular chain length and cross-linking, isolate strawberry DNA and denature proteins to learn about biopolymers, and experiment with superabsorbent molecules like those used in diapers to research how different plastics are synthesized. By the end of the course, you'll understand the chemistry behind many materials we use every day.
Typical Class Size: 14-16
Learning Objectives
- Test and classify the structure and morphology of crystalline polymers
- Experiment on crystallization of shapes and colors, and defend the crystallization process
- Measure densities, rigidity, flammability, and surfaces of polymers
- Investigate polymer chain structure, chain memory, and transition temperatures using molecular models
- Illustrate a semi-permeable membrane and design tests for permeability through experiments
- Analyze elements and atoms of carbohydrates in both crystals and polymers
- Synthesize proteins and amino acids through lab activities and experiment to find what makes proteins more or less soluble
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
In Person
Ursinus College
Collegeville, PA
Residential Site
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: June 21, 2026
Time Commitment:
This course has a lab fee of $187.
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Eyewitness: Crystal & Gem, by R.F. Symes and Richard Harding
Polymers All Around You, Mickey Sarquis and Linda Woodward
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: June 8, 2026
Time Commitment:
This course has a lab fee of $187.
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Eyewitness: Crystal & Gem, by R.F. Symes and Richard Harding
Polymers All Around You, Mickey Sarquis and Linda Woodward
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid