25 March 2010
Pupils turn detective to crack the chemistry code
Pupils from the region swapped the classroom for a crime scene as part of a fun-filled day of science for the Salters' Festival of Chemistry yesterday (Wednesday 24 March 2010). The event, held at the University of Sheffield, gave budding scientists of the future the chance to learn more about the fascinating world of chemistry by becoming forensic scientists for the day.
15 schools across the region took part in the event, each putting forward a team of four 11-13 year olds, who used their analytical chemistry skills to solve the `Mysterious Death of Captain Salter,´ in a competitive, hands-on, practical activity. The students were presented with samples from an imaginary crime scene and had to investigate who committed the crime from the evidence they collected.
In the afternoon, the pupils put their knowledge to the test and competed in a `University Challenge,´ a practical activity chosen by the University, in which they were required to devise a chemical timer. This was followed by an insightful and interactive lecture by Dr Ray and Rosemary Plevey entitled `Chemical Magic.´
The day ended with a prize giving ceremony, in which all participants were given individual fun prizes and participation certificates and the winning teams were awarded prizes for their schools.
The Salters' Festivals of Chemistry are an initiative of The Salters' Institute, whose aim is to promote the appreciation of chemistry and related sciences amongst the young. The Festival at the University of Sheffield is one of a series of 51 festivals that will take place at universities throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland between March and June 2010.
Dr Julie Hyde from the University of Sheffield´s Department of Chemistry, said: "The Salters´ Festival is a great competition. Students had the opportunity to carry out practical analytical chemistry, work as a team and analyse their findings. The two different challenges included a range of new and familiar techniques for the students to use, which were enjoyed by all."
Alex Saxton, aged 12, from St Mary´s Roman Catholic High School in Chesterfield, said: "I enjoyed the day because I´ve always wanted to do something like this but have never had the chance. It has made me want to be a forensic scientist in the future."
Eve Brown, aged 11, also from St Mary´s Roman Catholic High School, added: "The day has been even better than I expected and I´ve enjoyed testing ink to crack the code. I´ve learnt a lot and really enjoyed myself." Notes for Editors: Schools that attended the Salters' Festival of Chemistry at the University of Sheffield included:
Deincourt Community School
Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School
Hall Cross School
Littleover Community School
Mexborough School
Mirfield Free Grammar School and Sixth Form Centre
Parkside Community School
Queen Elizabeth´s High School
Rawmarsh School
Sheffield High School
St Mary´s RC High School
Tapton School
The McAuley Catholic High School
Wingfield Comprehensive School
To find out more about the Salters' Festival of Chemistry, visit: www.salters.co.uk/festivals/
For further information please contact: Shemina Davis, Media Relations Officer, on 0114 2225339 or email shemina.davis@sheffield.ac.uk or Fleur Layzell, Publicity Co-ordinator for the Salters' Institute, on 020 7628 5962 ext 260 or email publicity@salters.co.uk
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