Inspiring the next generation
Two members of the RSC Essex Local Section paid a visit to a local primary school to inspire budding scientists with some exciting demonstrations.
AUTHORS: Alan Osborne and Sarah Phillips
"I became interested in science at an early age" is a common remark often overheard at networking sessions. The Essex local section has for many years presented "Fun with Chemistry" for 12–14 year olds – a series of interactive demonstrations that has always attracted large audiences and generated much scientific interest. So when the following question was raised by a seven year old "Mum, my school is having a Science Week soon, can you help?" this provided the opportunity for the Royal Society of Chemistry to become involved locally with primary science.
The plan was to give six 45-minute class assemblies to cover the whole school – 330 pupils – over the course of the day. The shows needed to be visual, quick, and easy to explain. The need to use everyday materials bought from the supermarket considerably eased the risk assessment!
We started on gases with the volcano experiment, using baking powder and vinegar. The audience was most surprised by the reaction, and the addition of some food colouring made for a very spectacular large red froth. Then it was on to liquids and the red cabbage indicator demonstration, which included unwrapping and shredding for all to see, which added to the tension. The loudest gasps of the day came when we added vinegar and the colour instantly changed from blue to red. Other colours were seen with lemon juice, cola and bleach.
After making a basic lava lamp with cooking oil, we moved on to solids and ‘magic sand’ – made at home using suede shoe super protect spray. The physics contribution was a demonstration of the vacuum created by an upturned half-filled wine glass on cardboard, and finally it was on to maths, where the triple stack dice trick created much amazement.
Sometime afterwards a large envelope arrived in the post. It contained several large A2 thank you cards, containing post it notes written by every child in the school. This was a touching memento, which I shall always cherish.
Just how many of these children will become future Royal Society of Chemistry members, only time, and more inspiration, will tell. Hopefully their memories of the two of us in our white lab coats will go a long way in influencing their decision.
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