Exploring the Beauty of Chemistry
Where art and science converge
by Ringsemmi Zimik, Middle School Science Teacher
Jambey Y. (left) and Tashi W. (right) with their chemistry art
In the enchanting world of education, there exists a delightful convergence between art and Science. This unique blend was recently brought to life in my Grade 7 classroom during their captivating lesson on “Acids, Bases and Salts.”
What begins as a traditional Science lesson evolved into a remarkable journey of discovery, creativity, and hands on learning.
The lesson commenced with an exploration of the properties of acids and bases. The young minds were introduced to an array of indicators both natural and laboratory made, designed to unveil the acidic and basic nature of various substances. Lemon juice, orange juice, vinegar, soap solution, baking powder, yogurt, and more were subjected to scrutiny.
What made this lesson truly special were the tools of choice for this adventure: litmus paper, turmeric, and China rose petals—all of which were readily available within Jhamtse Gatsal’s campus.
In this classroom, learning transcended the boundaries of textbooks.
As the students embarked on their experimentation journey, the colours of their learning environment transformed. They marvelled at the shifting hues, especially the magical change that turmeric exhibited in response to different solutions (basic solutions). It was this fascination that inspired an ingenious and fun-based activity, which was designed to etch the lesson deep into their memory.
The activity began with the students borrowing turmeric powder from the Community kitchen. With this vibrant yellow spice, they concocted a unique artistic medium.
The steps were simple but profoundly effective.
Turmeric powder was mixed with water to create a vivid yellow solution.
This solution was artfully applied to white A4-size sheets and left to bask in the sun to dry.
Armed with basic materials like a natural soap solution (Dettol handwash), a variety of paintbrush sizes, and their newfound turmeric canvas, the students set to work.
First, they painted the turmeric paper with the soap solution.
Then, they introduced an acidic solution, vinegar to the canvas.
What emerged was nothing short of astonishing.
The students, using these humble ingredients, painted breath-taking mountains scenes and flowers. The marriage of turmeric, soap solution, and vinegar created an enchanting symphony of colours on their canvases.
One student, Tashi W., was particularly inspired. He realized that he could create art at home without needing to purchase expensive colours from a stationary shop. Moreover, he grasped a scientific concept that when a basic solution is mixed with turmeric, it turns red; and when mixed with an acid, it remains unchanged. However, when basic and acidic solutions mingle, they produce a serene shade of light green—a testament to the chemistry of neutralisation reaction.
Transformed by tumeric.
Jambey Y., an ardent sketch enthusiast, found herself spellbound by the transformative power of turmeric. The spectacle attracted the attention of younger students from Grade 6, who peered through windows, their curiosity piqued. They too yearned for the day they would engage in this captivating blend of science and art.
In this classroom, learning transcended the boundaries of textbooks. It was a moment where students not only discerned the characteristics of acids and bases, but also fused their newfound knowledge with the boundless realm of creativity. It was a testament to the powers of hands-on activity based learning—an experience where learning, fun, and artistic expression converged seamlessly.
Tashi W. (left) and Jambey Y. (right)
Tashi W.