Imbolc: Stoichiometry & Westward Expansion
The Mole, Stoichiometry & Antebellum America
🌱 Unit Overview
At Imbolc, we celebrate the first stirrings of spring—seeds awakening beneath the soil. In chemistry, we learn stoichiometry: the mathematics of chemical reactions. We explore world poetry, finding diverse voices and forms. In history, we trace America's westward expansion and the growing tensions that would lead to civil war. In geometry, we master trigonometry.
📚 Learning Goals
English II
- • Analyze poetry from diverse traditions
- • Identify poetic devices and forms
- • Write original poetry
- • Perform and share poetry
Geometry
- • Apply trigonometric ratios
- • Solve right triangles
- • Use law of sines and cosines
- • Solve real-world trig problems
Chemistry
- • Understand the mole concept
- • Perform molar conversions
- • Calculate percent composition
- • Solve stoichiometry problems
U.S. History
- • Explain westward expansion
- • Analyze Native American removal
- • Describe reform movements
- • Understand growing sectionalism
Weekly Lessons
🕯️ Hearth Circle
New light emerging; counting the countless
📖 Language Arts
World poetry introduction; diverse voices; poetic forms
📐 Math
Right triangle trigonometry; sine, cosine, tangent
⚗️ Science
The mole; Avogadro's number; molar mass
🇺🇸 History
Westward expansion; Louisiana Purchase; Lewis and Clark
🎨 Art
Poetry-inspired art; visual interpretations
🏃 Movement
Exploration movement; journey themes
😫 "Just Can't" Day Alternatives
When the full lesson feels like too much, try these lighter alternatives:
- 📺 Watch stoichiometry videos (Organic Chemistry Tutor)
- 🎧 Listen to poetry podcasts (Poetry Unbound, VS)
- 🎮 Play trigonometry games (Trigonometry Practice apps)
- 📱 Explore westward expansion with Oregon Trail game
- 🎨 Create visual poetry or blackout poetry
See the supply list for optional "Just Can't" Day purchase suggestions.