Chemistry Discovery: A Service-Learning Outreach Course Produces a Workshop Series for Middle-School Students
Dr. Tomat created and launched Chemistry Discovery in 2012. University of Arizona undergraduate students enrolled in CHEM 496D Chemistry Discovery are exposed to the rewarding experience of promoting chemistry among younger students from local middle schools. The Chemistry Discovery team connects chemistry knowledge with everyday life while developing inquiry-based activities that facilitate chemistry learning. The main objective for the course is the design, development and presentation of a series of workshops for visiting middle schools (grades 6-8) at the University of Arizona Flandrau Science Center.
CHEM 496D students learn to apply the knowledge acquired in their chemistry classes in order to develop activities that prompt our visitors to discover chemical concepts in their daily experience and explore the chemical properties of common objects in the world around us. Our content units, which are organized in separate workstations, change every year. Topics have included the chemistry of batteries, DNA, fluorescent molecules, pH and oxygen indicators, polymeric materials, the properties of metals, and many more.
The early days of Chemistry Discovery were highlighted by UANews
Info for teachers
The Chemistry Discovery workshops maintain an interactive and dynamic atmosphere in order to encourage students to ask questions, make observations and draw conclusions in activities that aim at recapitulating the experiences of scientists in the fields of chemistry and biochemistry.
Furthermore, our program promotes higher education by providing an opportunity for middle-school students to discuss scientific observations while interacting with college students.
When and Where
Chemistry Discovery workshops are held in the Discovery Lab at the Flandrau Science Center on the University of Arizona campus. Unfortunately the Chemistry Discovery workshop series was forced to a pause by the Covid-19 pandemic; however, our activities have restarted in Fall 2022!
Info for students
CHEM 496D Chemistry Discovery is a 1-unit undergraduate course and it is part of the 100% Engagement Initiative of the Office of Student Engagement and Career Development. Students that obtain a passing grade earn the notation "Engaged Learning Experience: Completed" on their transcript. Attendance is required and two semesters of general chemistry are preferred.
Graduate students can also participate by enrolling in CHEM 596D.
Bring your enthusiasm for science and you will make a difference!
More Information
Contact Prof. Elisa Tomat
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
tomat@arizona.edu
