During 11T1's Chemistry lesson this week, students have been studying carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids are organic compounds that form when an alcohol reacts with oxygen. This reaction is responsible for opened wine (ethanol) tasting like vinegar (ethanoic acid) over time!

Firstly, we commenced the lesson by drawing the acids and writing their molecular formulae before finding out about their reactive properties. Carboxylic acids are weak in comparison to the other acids but they have similar reactions. The students then added an alcohol to the carboxylic acid to make sweet smelling esters.  Esters are used to make flavourings for sweets like pear and cherry drops.  By learning about esterification, students can connect classroom knowledge to real-world applications, understanding the relevance of chemistry in everyday products. This connection can spark interest and motivation in students, as they see the practical implications of their studies.

The knowledge gained is essential for further studies in chemistry and related fields, helping students grasp complex scientific ideas more easily.  The process of synthesising esters from carboxylic acids and alcohols encouraged students to think critically and solve problems. They predicted outcomes, observed reactions, and analysed results, all of which strengthen their analytical skills.

Mrs Brunning, Assistant Headteacher and Teacher of Science