Dr Shini Somarathne presents a run-down of the top ten experiments that go wrong for teachers, compiled by school science support service CLEAPSS.
Expert chemists Dr Colin Osborne from the Royal Society of Chemistry, and Dr Kay Stephenson and Bob Worley from CLEAPSS demonstrate what happens when experiments don't go according to plan. They also give some alternative approaches to classic experiments.
Problems associated with cracking hydrocarbons, white phosphorus, making chlorine gas, and making copper sulphate crystals are demonstrated, and the experts give some top tips to make school science experiments a success.
Useful websites
A large range of educational resources for students and teachers as well as training and CPD courses
Information on the Consortium of Local Education Authorities for the Provision of Science Services (CLEAPSS), including advice on Health and Safety and risk assessments
Aims to develop new educational resources, promote exciting teaching and interest young people in plant science and molecular biology
EUN provides major European education portals for teaching, learning and collaboration and leads the way in bringing about change in schooling through the use of new technology.
