Careful Chemistry: Caution Counts in the Lab

Students in 8th grade participated in their first lab of the school year, taking a closer look at the importance of lab safety when handling chemicals.

"Our students had to determine which container held the water using their skills of observation and safety protocols of wafting," according to JPII science teacher Nicole Schatzle. "They quickly realized that it was almost impossible to determine which was water and which was the hydrogen peroxide, the mystery chemical. They then tested the effects of getting chemicals in eyes by investigating egg whites with hydrogen peroxide and vinegar learning a great lesson in eye safety!"

Prioritizing a Pristine Crime Scene

Continuing in the safety mode, the 6th and 8th grade science classes also explored a lab safety crime scene, investigating our ‘science dude’ and finding all the lab rules that were being broken. "Students had fun looking for clues and determining all the ways the rules were being broken and determining how to correct them," explained Mrs. Schatzle.

Some of the important takeaways that will help students develop a deeper appreciation for the importance of lab safety and the practical applications of the protocols they learn include:

1. The Importance of Proper Identification: Students understand that correctly identifying substances in a lab is crucial for their safety and the success of their experiments. They will learn that even seemingly harmless substances like water can be easily confused with hazardous chemicals, reinforcing the need for careful observation and the use of safety protocols like wafting.
2. The Role of Caution and Patience in Science: Students recognize that science often requires careful, deliberate actions to avoid mistakes. This experience teaches them that rushing or neglecting safety procedures can lead to dangerous outcomes, emphasizing the value of patience and caution in scientific practice.
3. The Application of Safety Protocols to Real-Life Situations: Through this exercise, students learn that safety protocols, such as wafting to detect odors, are practical skills that extend beyond the classroom. They’ll see how these protocols help protect them in potentially hazardous situations, both in the lab and in everyday life, fostering a mindset of safety-consciousness.