ORGANIZING THE TEACHING OF THE TOPIC “ACTIVATION ENERGY OF CHEMICAL REACTIONS” (GRADE 10 CHEMISTRY) USING THE CONTRACT TEACHING METHOD TO DEVELOP STUDENTS’ PROBLEM-SOLVING AND CREATIVITY COMPETENCIES

Abstract

The topic "Activation Energy of Chemical Reactions" in Grade 10 Chemistry aims to expand and deepen students' knowledge of reaction rates. Accordingly, teaching this topic offers numerous opportunities to foster students’ chemical thinking, problem-solving and creative competencies. This study proposes a process for applying the contract teaching method to organize instruction that promotes the development of these competencies. Drawing on theoretical research, practical research, and data analysis methods, we developed a five-step teaching process. This process was experimentally implemented with 80 Grade 10 students at Xuan Hoa High School, Xuan Hoa, Phu Tho. The experimental results revealed significant improvements in areas such as information analysis, problem identification, solution selection, implementation planning, problem solving, and evaluation within the experimental group. These findings demonstrate that the application of the contract teaching method effectively supports the development of students' problem-solving and creative competencies, thereby contributing to the innovation of general education aimed at fostering students' qualities and competencies.