Chemical Reactions in Action Workshop

Today our class had the opportunity to take part in an exciting SFU Chemical Reactions in Action workshop where they explored chemistry through hands-on experiments and demonstrations.
Students investigated how different substances interact and change when combined. One activity involved creating tiny gel-like spheres similar to Orbeez, where students observed how chemical reactions can transform liquids into soft, solid beads through a fascinating process of bonding and reaction.
The highlight of the workshop was definitely the “Elephant Toothpaste” experiment. Students watched as a rapid chemical reaction produced a dramatic tower of colourful foam! As the reaction took place, students learned how catalysts speed up chemical reactions and how gases can be produced during a chemical change.
Throughout the workshop, students were encouraged to make predictions, observe closely, and discuss what they were noticing as the reactions occurred. It was wonderful to see their curiosity in action as they connected what they were seeing to the science concepts we have been exploring in class.
A big thank you to the SFU team for leading such an engaging and memorable learning experience. Activities like this help bring science to life and show students how chemistry is happening all around us! 🧫✨
