Combining Education with Fun, Gaining True Knowledge from Practice

Recently, the high school chemistry group of Shanghai High School International Division held an innovative interdisciplinary project competition for ninth and tenth graders, demonstrating the educational philosophy of "learning from practice".

Ninth Grade: Soap Bubble Blowing Competition Solves Real-World Problems with Scientific Methods

This semester, the ninth-grade students at SHSID participated in a fun and challenging interdisciplinary activity—the Soap Bubble Blowing Competition. This competition not only tested the chemistry knowledge they had learned in class but also incorporated physics concepts, sparking students' creativity and teamwork spirit.

In the ninth-grade chemistry curriculum, students had already learned the basic concepts of atoms, molecules, and chemical bonds, and would continue to explore intermolecular forces and molecular polarity. To increase the longevity and stability of soap bubbles, students needed to consider factors affecting intermolecular forces, such as the concentration of the soap solution, the solution's temperature, the addition of surfactants, or glycerin. Students conducted research and developed their own soap solutions, exploring the effects of different amounts of detergent, water, sugar, and glycerin on bubble size and duration.

During the competition, students could be seen everywhere on campus, carefully blowing bubbles with their tools. Some used two sticks and a long string to create flying giant bubbles as if performing magic. Despite the simple tools, the effects were amazing. Students expressed that the competition not only helped them understand the related chemistry knowledge but also allowed them to experience how to better use their knowledge to improve experiments and results, solving real-world problems with scientific methods and enjoying the fun of scientific exploration.

Tenth Grade: Exploring Business Opportunities in Chemistry Ignites Entrepreneurial Passion

In order to explore more possibilities of interdisciplinary integration, the Chemistry and Economics departments collaborated to host an entrepreneurial competition titled "A Chemistry Student Wants to Start a Business." Students needed to transform theoretical chemical concepts into practical business plans, which tested their understanding of both chemistry and economics, while also developing their ability to apply their knowledge and solve real-world problems. The students fully utilized their imagination to create a series of innovative products and services, such as eucalyptus leaf mosquito repellent, perfumes, ceramics, and diamonds.

During the rapid investment round on May 29, twenty-seven teams showcased their products and services, including posters, product samples, and models, seeking support from teachers and classmates. Among them, two teams won the highest popularity award in the first round, while the Identity team's perfume product perfectly embodied the concept of "Fragrance Your Identity, Embrace Your Essence," becoming a compelling commercial case for chemistry products. In the subsequent angel investment round, four advancing teams will continue to present their product designs and business plans, aiming to attract angel investors' interest and further develop their business insights, market forecasting abilities, and project feasibility.

The entrepreneurial projects emphasized multi-perspective thinking, encouraging students to explore the connections between chemistry and various industries. They learned to think from both chemical and business perspectives, understanding how chemical principles apply to product development and the importance of market analysis and business strategies for successful commercialization. Students even made their own advertisements, enhancing their storytelling skills and effectively expressing their business ideas creatively.

Successful Interdisciplinary Practice Highlights Individuality and Applied Learning

Through these interdisciplinary project practice competitions, students not only gained a profound understanding of the relationship between theoretical knowledge and practical application, but also developed their innovative thinking, teamwork, and interdisciplinary skills. These activities fostered their ability to use scientific methods to solve real-world problems and enhanced their research and presentation skills. Additionally, the activities for ninth-graders emphasized storytelling abilities. Students were encouraged to express their ideas clearly and creatively in presentations, highlighting the importance of effectively communicating scientific discoveries and research processes. By seeing the wide applications of chemistry in daily life, students' interest in the subject greatly increased, making learning both fun and meaningful. The communication skills cultivated through these projects are crucial for their academic and professional success.

These valuable experiences will lay a solid foundation for their future academic research and career development, enabling them to continue showcasing their individuality, pursuing personal dreams, and making outstanding contributions in their future careers. As the project’s slogan goes, "Fragrance Your Identity, Embrace Your Essence," it is hoped that every student will stand out and strive for excellence on their future paths.

(Written by Ms. Min Yang Pictures by Mr. Hao Sun Edited by Mr. Cody Allen Turner)