Students in the Churchville-Chili Senior High School Applied Chemistry class went for the WOW at their annual Element Symposium – the conclusion to their studies of the 118 chemical elements in the periodic table. Each student chose a single element, like copper, mercury or lead, to become an expert in. They researched the history behind their chosen element, where it comes from, how it is used in everyday life and why it is important.
Creative presentations were designed to show off each element. Element experts became the stars of their own chemistry shows, answering questions and sharing interesting tidbits of knowledge. They enjoyed astonishing visitors to their presentation with fascinating, but little-known details about their subjects.
“This project-based learning approach provides student choice, encourages creativity and teaches communication skills,” said teacher Kim Walter. “The Element Symposium is a wonderful day to respectfully listen to each other, learn from each other, and engage in chemistry conversations.”