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6. CONCEPT DEFINITIONS
Concept definitions are the exact definitions of the concept being covered.
There are generally four levels to any definition.
- General Science – middle school or introductory high school science class. This is a simple-English definition that conveys the basic concepts without going too much in depth.
- Basic – introductory high school chemistry class. This is a simple-English definition that conveys a more complete understanding of the concept.
- Advanced – advanced, AP, IB class, or even an introductory college course. This is a technical definition, perhaps as it would appear in the textbooks or the scientist’s own writing.
- Mathematical – all levels. This is any formulas and mathematical (symbolic) representations of the concept.
You can also add any background knowledge, such as numerical constants, qualifying criteria, e.g. for ideal systems.
The definitions are for students to learn and review, as well as to help teachers determine their own phrasing.
Check in textbooks for each level to see how they describe the concept.
