Unforgettable Moments in the Lab

 

Teaching chemistry isn’t just about formulas and equations—it’s about sparking curiosity, creating hands-on experiences, and sometimes, witnessing a few unexpected (but safe!) explosions. As a chemistry teacher, every day in the classroom is an adventure, filled with excited students, fascinating experiments, and the occasional “Oops… that reaction was bigger than expected!”

Here are some of the most unforgettable moments, creative teaching ideas, and fun activities that make chemistry the best subject in school!

1. The Day Baking Soda and Vinegar Took Over the Lab

We all know the classic baking soda and vinegar reaction—it’s a simple way to introduce students to chemical reactions. But one day, a group of students got a little too enthusiastic. Instead of the small reaction we planned, they created a volcanic eruption that coated the entire desk (and part of my lab coat).

Lesson Learned: Bigger isn’t always better—but sometimes, it’s way more fun! Now, I use this activity as a mini-challenge: Who can control their reaction best with just the right proportions?

2. Glow-in-the-Dark Chemistry: The Best Way to Teach Excited Electrons

Nothing gets students more excited than making things glow! One of my favourite lessons involves using glow sticks and tonic water to demonstrate fluorescence and chemical reactions. Turning off the lights and watching neon liquids swirl is a guaranteed way to make students say, “Whoa!”

Teaching Tip: Try mixing different substances and using UV light to see what glows. It’s a great way to explain how electrons get excited and release energy as light. Plus, it just looks awesome.

3. Slime, Elephant Toothpaste, and the Power of Messy Science

Some of the best lessons involve hands-on messiness. Slime-making teaches polymer chemistry, and the famous “Elephant Toothpaste” reaction (Hydrogen peroxide + soap) never fails to impress. Every time we do these activities, I hear the same phrase:

"Wait, science can be THIS fun?"

Yes. Yes, it can.

 The Best Part of Teaching Chemistry

It’s not just about test scores or memorizing formulas—it’s about seeing students light up when they understand a concept, hearing them excitedly explain a reaction to their friends, and knowing that you’ve made science come alive for them.

So, to all the fellow Lab Coat Legends out there—keep making a mess, keep blowing minds, and keep showing students that chemistry is the most exciting subject in the world. Because when learning is fun, science becomes unforgettable.

Want more science and chemistry fun? Share your favourite classroom moments in the comments!

References:

Moutsakis, G., Paschalidou, K., & Salta, K. (2025). Chemistry laboratory experiments focusing on students’ engagement in scientific practices and central ideas of chemical practices. Chemistry Teacher International, 7(1), 173-182. 

RSC Education. (2018). The glow stick reaction. Exhibition Chemistry. https://edu.rsc.org/exhibition-chemistry/the-glow-stick-reaction/3010386.article​

Science Interactive. (2023). The essential guide to increasing student engagement in your online science courses. https://www.scienceinteractive.com/blog/2023/the-essential-guide-to-increasing-student-engagement-in-your-online-science-courses/

 

 

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