Today, A.P. chemistry students presented science experiment demonstrations to their younger peers in our Lower School. At six stations, they demonstrated chemical reactions and produced flames, smoke, foam, changes in composition and color.
“A.P. chemistry is probably one of the most challenging courses at this school,” said Sara Baldvins, our A.P. chemistry teacher. “So, when students sign up to take this class they are absolutely signing up for a challenge. We have really bonded as a class throughout the year because of that. This is a tight-knit group.”
Students took their A.P. exam earlier this month and since then have been working together to develop their demonstrations. In addition to presenting their demonstrations to Lower School students they must also prepare a report for Mrs. Baldvins that explains the science behind the chemical reactions.
Mrs. Baldvins asked her students to focus on making science fun for the next generation of scientists. She said she hopes the demonstrations inspire a sense of wonder in our Lower School students and that they get into the habit of leaning into science in the search for answers to the questions that grow from their wonder.
“Curiosity is the engine that drives science,” Mrs. Baldvins said. “The more we can foster curiosity, the more we are going to have people leaning into the sciences.”
Katherine Schlicht, our Lower School science teacher, said she was impressed with how the Upper School students managed working with kindergarten and first-grade students. She called William Gokey ’24, a natural teacher.
“He brought the enthusiasm,” Mrs. Baldvins said, referring to William. “His presentation, his affect, was engaging and warm.”