Catalyst 2, green and red student books
Carol Chapman and Moira Sheehan
Oxford: Heinemann 2003 | Pp148 each | 10.25 each | ISBN0 435 76031 9; 0 435 76030 0
Reviewed by Anthony Toole

Despite the implication of its title, Catalyst 2 covers the requirements of all three science disciplines for the second year of a structured Key Stage 3 course. In fact, the chemistry content, in terms of pages, comprises less than 30 per cent of the total, which seems to be the trend these days.

Although the green and red books are set at different levels (National Curriculum levels 3–5 and 5–7, respectively), they are matched, page for page in subject matter, and differ only in the details. The red book, for example, introduces simple calculations and the idea of constant composition, while its green companion has larger illustrations, less dense text and less demanding questions. The books can be used equally well with separate classes or with a single mixed-ability group of students.

The chemistry topics covered are Atoms and elements, Compounds and mixtures, Rocks and weathering and The rock cycle. Each topic is divided into a series of two-page spreads and each of these, while self-contained, leads seamlessly into the next. The material is concise and attractively presented, with excellent coloured photographs and drawings. New concepts are simply explained. Interest and further study are encouraged by the inclusion of historical items, some of which I have not seen in any other textbook for this level. A comprehensive teacher resource file and CD-ROM support the programme.

If I wanted to be pedantic, I could find points with which to disagree, but within the educational context of Key Stage 3, these are negligible. The whole scheme appears to be well thought out, and the books reflect this.