Did you know that ancient Greek philosopher Democritus is mostly remembered for his formulation of an atomic theory of the universe? Or that Sir James Chadwick was awarded the 1935 Nobel Prize in Physics for his discovery of the neutron in 1932? Students in Lauren Ocker’s Honors Chemistry class certainly do and had some fun with their enrichment projects culminating right before Halloween.

Each student created a tombstone of a dead chemist. The chemist’s scientific contributions and their life stories are then presented, where some students even “become” their chemist.

“Most of these scientists will be discussed throughout the year, and it is a great way to connect current concepts and show how they are built upon by the discoveries of many that have come before,” Ms. Ocker said.

The project also allows students to do some research and find that many of these scientists have worked together, further fostering the idea of collaboration. Learning in class about the historical background of some of the chemistry discoveries allows them also to make connections to what they have previously discussed in history class as well.

The tombstones will stay on display in the classroom throughout most of the year so the students can collectively refer to these projects and take ownership of the learning they did earlier in the year.

Date Added: 10/24/2022