Cutting edge science in a school laboratory
After ten years, many experiments and cohorts of new students, Catherine Smith shares her experience completing a multistep synthesis with her science club
Ask any school science teacher and they will tell you the challenges of running an effective practical activity. The curriculum, timetable and limited equipment can all get in the way. Students love practical work but the restrictions of a school environment often result in them simply following a set of written instructions to achieve a pre-determined endpoint.
As a teacher with a research background I am keen for my students to experience the thrill of discovering something new. I believe it is these experiences that inspire people to become scientists.
My students did an organic synthesis project as part of an extracurricular science club. Not only has the project resulted in the completion of a total synthesis but along the way it has inspired a number of students into careers in scientific research.
The project began in 2008 when an enthusiastic group of young scientists moved into my school’s sixth form. I was intrigued to see if the students, armed with only a basic knowledge of organic chemistry, could tackle a multistep synthesis. Was this possible in a school laboratory with basic equipment?
Sign in or register now to read on and find out how Catherine kept her students engaged and tips for supporting your students to carry out a research project.
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