A decision tree is a visual representation of the schema an expert might use to find the answer to a question

This resource supports the article Scaffold learning with decision trees where you can find more ideas for how to make and use decision trees in your teaching. 

  • Example slides from this resource showing a decision tree for acid, base or buffer

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    A pre-prepared decision tree to guide learners' thinking as they choose the right equation to answer questions on the topic of acids, bases and buffers. Presentation with teacher guidance as pdf and MS PowerPoint.

Introduction 

25.0 cm3 of a 0.400 mol dm-3 solution of NaOH is added to 25.0 cm3 of a 1.00 mol dm-3 solution of ethanoic acid. How can you calculate the pH of the solution formed?

A decision tree is a visual representation of the route you take to find an answer. It plans out thinking and breaks it down into a series of decisions to make.

How to use this resource

A decision tree can support learners by scaffolding that thinking to help them access the knowledge they need to answer questions.

A decision tree offering a series of questions to determine which equation a learner will need to answer a question

Source: Royal Society of Chemistry

By answering a series of questions learners are guided to choose the right equation to answer a question

 

Try using this pre-prepared decision tree to aid with questions on the challenging topic of acids, bases and buffers.

  • Introduce the decision tree – try using it for an example problem.
  • Be prepared to modify it, add hints or recap learning if any sticking points arise.
  • Gradually remove the scaffold the decision tree provides by using spaced retrieval activities carefully designed to support retention of the key decisions or knowledge.

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