Year 11 have been embarking on an exciting journey into the world of organic chemistry. I know what you might be thinking, “Organic chemistry? Isn’t that something only for lab-coated scientists?” Well, not quite! Organic chemistry is all around us and understanding it can unlock the secrets behind everything, from your favourite snacks to the fragrances you wear. So, let’s roll up our sleeves (figuratively, of course) and explore this fascinating branch of science!

What is Organic Chemistry?

First things first, what is organic chemistry and why is it so cool? Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing compounds. Carbon, the superstar of this show, has the amazing ability to form a wide variety of molecules, making it the cornerstone of life as we know it. It’s in your DNA, the food you eat, the clothes you wear and even the device you’re reading this on!

In the world of organic chemistry, it’s all about the bonds. Carbon forms four strong bonds, allowing it to connect to other atoms in unique ways. These bonds can be single, double, or even triple, leading to a vast array of different molecules with diverse properties. Ever wondered why diamonds are hard and shiny, while pencil lead (also carbon) is soft and dark? It’s all about the bonds!

Functional Groups: The Superheroes of Organic Chemistry

Meet the functional groups! These are the special parts of organic molecules that give them their distinctive properties and functions. Think of them as the superheroes in the organic chemistry universe. For example, the hydroxyl group (OH) makes alcohols, the carbonyl group (C=O) is present in carboxylic acids and the amino group (NH2) is found in amino acids. Each of these functional groups adds a unique twist to the molecule’s behaviour.

Now that we’ve got a grasp on the basics, you might be wondering, “Why does organic chemistry matter in my life?” Well, it’s everywhere! From understanding the ingredients in your favourite snacks to the development of life-saving drugs, organic chemistry plays a critical role. It even helps solve environmental challenges by developing sustainable materials and fuels.

Year 11 have been drawing these molecules and using moly mods to visualise all the different types of organic molecules that we have. We even spent some time making ethyl ethanoate – and ester which gives pear drops their distinctive smell! Can anybody name the following organic molecules? 

Mr Dean

Science Department

Year 8 have been learning about Earth, one of the ten big powerful ideas in Science. This unit includes the structure of the Earth, weathering, the different types of rocks and how they are formed. To understand how they are linked together, students studied the rock cycle in a variety of ways from video, to focusing on keywords to completing diagrams. They also researched some uses of the types of rocks, as well as the rock cycle itself. The students enjoyed this topic and a display of all their excellent work was made . 

Mrs Cahill, Science Teacher

Our Year 7 students have been demonstrating their creative flair by taking part in our “Cell-a-Bration” competition. After studying the structure and function of animal, plant, fungal, protist and bacterial cells, the year7s have been building 3D models of the cells that they have learned. Many have been baking and decorating cakes, as well as crafting with a variety of modelling materials. Well done to all the students who have taken part. We hope everyone has enjoyed making their fabulous creations.

Class and overall winners will be announced after half term.

Mr Knee

Science Department

During the Festival of Literature and Language, all of our Year 8 students investigated how we can recreate the magic of Harry Potter in the Science laboratory.

Year 8 stepped into the world of Harry Potter and… Alohomora!…unlocked their magical powers. We created ‘Lumos!’ wands by burning magnesium, which produces a bright white light when burned it in oxygen. ‘Lumos’ is a charm in Harry Potter that illuminates the tip of the caster’s wand, allowing the caster to see in the dark.

We practiced the art of ‘potion-making’ by creating a colour changing redox reaction. This exploited the dramatic colour changes associated with the various oxidation states of manganese. In Hogwarts, potions lessons took place in one of the dungeons. “It was colder here than up in the main castle, and would have been quite creepy enough without the pickled animals floating in glass jars all around the walls.”

We also explored the science of ‘Incendio!’ (flame tests) and discovered that different metal ions created different coloured flames. ‘Avada Kedavra’ is a curse used in Harry Potter which causes instantaneous death. It is accompanied by a flash of green light and a rushing noise.

Year 8 were then given the opportunity to create a newsletter article for the ‘Daily Prophet’ outlining all of the magical science experiments that they had carried out.

Miss Forrest

Science Department