Chemistry Experimentation

Storm Lake St. Mary’s third-grade class was gifted a “St. Mary's Ball Nemmers Science Room Chemistry Experimentation Experience” from a generous parent’s purchase at the St. Mary’s Ball. Elementary students arrived at the Bernard '40 and June (Beck) Christenson Science Classroom in goggles and lab aprons on Thursday to act their parts as young scientists. Chemistry students, under the guidance of Dr. Erica Larson, created and facilitated lessons designed for these students surrounding the phenomena of color. This teaching opportunity provided an authentic audience for chemistry students to communicate scientific understandings as part of their final exam. A rainbow keepsake was the result of the chromatology station. A color change and bubbles were two indicators of a chemical reaction at the second station. The acid and zinc reaction resulted in the ‘pop’ of combustion of hydrogen gas. The third station was a favorite as students conducted flame tests of various solutions. The color change showcased electrons in their excited states. High school students, third graders, and teachers had a great time! Part of the vision of the renovation of the Bernard '40 and June (Beck) Christenson Science Classroom was versatility. We love utilizing this lab space for these unique combinations of students!