Then demonstrate a method of naming ionic and binary covalent compounds. Make up and use games such as the following to increase students' familiarity with the relationship between formulae and nomenclature. Students are dealt cards containing ions, which they must combine into correct formulae in order to get rid of the cards. Other students then ask this individual questions on the given area of expertise. Software programs that provide drill on writing formulae and names of compounds can be used to assist students who have difficulty with nomenclature.
Students research the names and formulae for common acids.
Emphasize that acid names do not follow the rules for naming covalent compounds. Have students work in pairs, consulting and checking each other's work, to come up with a formula using two given ions.