Abstrakt
The work is focused on integrated thematic learning while the main theme is Chemical reactions that changed the world. Eight important reactions were chosen along with convenient activities that demonstrate them or allow pupils to research all aspects of given chemical process.
Pupils are divided into groups based on which reaction or topic they find most attractive. Activities are designed to introduce the scientific method and the process of research to pupils.
The research/inquiry itself is divided into three phases. The first phase contains research in which pupils are introduced to the chemical reaction and its characteristics, with its historical and current importance.
In the second phase, pupils are guided to design an experiment and to perform it by themselves/independently. In the third phase, pupils are directed to present the results of their work at the staged scientific conference.
Our main goal was introducing pupils to the scientific method and humanizing it for those who haven't had the opportunity to observe it in its real form. Our additional goals were motivating the pupils (be it motivation for the scientific method or for learning chemistry), acquiring essential laboratory skills, developing teamwork skills, and fostering core competencies.
Our theme and instructions for integrated thematic learning were primarily made for secondary school pupils who are thought to have had previous experience with work in a laboratory. However, the instructions are flexible so that the instructor might make them less or more challenging depending on the age of the pupils (pupils might receive more or less information).