Duncan Short
Duncan has taught chemistry and science for a number of years in Fife and currently teaches in Falkirk.
OpinionWhy teachers matter more than AI
Teachers turn students into learners and help young people improve their metacognitive functions
FeatureImprove students’ understanding with Johnstone’s triangle
Make abstract ideas concrete by linking macroscopic, submicroscopic and symbolic representations
CPD articleHow to teach chemistry through electrostatics at post-16
Highlight the importance of charge and polarity in chemistry with these classroom ideas and activities
PosterEverything you need to teach addition polymerisation
Use this poster, fact sheet and classroom activity to ensure your 14–16 learners get to grips with addition polymers
CPD articleEverything you need to teach polymers at 14−16
Sharpen your teaching of polymers with these classroom ideas, activities and resources
IdeasModelling ionic bonds with plasticine
Mould your students’ understanding of ionic bond formation and overcome misconceptions
IdeasEveryday neutralisation myths busted
Give real-world relevance to neutralisation reactions by testing the basicity of toothpastes
ResourceToothpaste investigation: neutralisation reactions
Test the basicity of toothpastes and give context to neutralisation reactions
ResourceIntroducing moles numeracy worksheet | 14–16 years
Use the context of cooking to get students more comfortable with concepts such as balanced equations, ratios and reagents
IdeasStoichiometry and moles: how to explain it?
Use cooking as a fun, accessible introduction to why and how we use balanced equations