How to teach organic mechanisms using roleplay

A cartoon of students using drama to express organic chemistry processes

Source: © Inspiring.Team/Shutterstock

Improve your students’ understanding of one of post-16 chemistry’s trickiest topics

Drama is used regularly as a teaching tool in the humanities and social sciences, but it’s worth considering its value in the chemistry classroom as well. Learners often consider organic mechanisms as one of the most difficult topics in post-16 chemistry – using roleplay to model reaction mechanisms can help learners engage cognitively with what they are learning. Discover how one teacher used roleplay to improve student understanding and build confidence, as well as their top tips for getting the most out of this activity.

Make your lessons pop

Choose an account option to continue exploring our full range of articles and teaching resources

Free

Free access for everyone, everywhere. If you only need a few resources, start here.


What's included

  • One free teaching resource each month
  • Five free Education in Chemistry articles each month
  • Personalised email alerts and bookmarks