For sophomore chemistry classes, a project was assigned where groups needed to devise a plan and procedure for carrying out a small scale experiment last week: Their goal was to produce exactly 2.00g of sodium chloride. To maximize efficiency, while staying on budget, students were penalized for producing less than 2.00 grams or more than 2.25 grams. They were able to access any equipment that they may need.

Although the students experienced many labs before this, this was different because they got to present it to their instructors. They were also working in groups of 3; therefore, they were able to experience collaboration in problem solving, as well as gaining hands-on experience to understand the concepts of real-world science. This prepared them in many ways, whether it’s in regards to STEM careers encountering data analysis, scientific discourse, critical thinking, or deeper information retention. Zairabella, one of the students involved, commented that the experience was “stressful but helpful; it prepares us for future labs,” comparing the good and the bad.

Teachers and supervisors were the ones who viewed the student groups’ presentations. Even though they all had the same goal, each had a different method for the experiment. One of the supervisors commented, “they’re very strong and clear- they know their content,” showing how well prepared the students were.

Many students enjoyed the lab, considering it was their first time being able to experiment and present the labs for their overseers. Luciana Gallo, another student involved in the experiment, remarked rather sarcastically, “I was tempted to eat the salt.” Many others agreed since they knew what to do and how to replicate their experiments and didn’t see any problem in doing so, but this was prevented because the equipment was not thoroughly clean enough to eat. 

This is the second year the teacher, Mrs. Kauffman, has done the same lab, and both times it went well; many who interviewed the students had good comments, like “they were able to explain the science behind it for those who don’t know” and “this is what you’ll do for future research even at a college level.”