14 March 2022
Mrs Helen Barnes, Teacher of chemistry
We recently heard the excellent news that Woldingham came 5th out of 37 schools taking part in the regional round of the Top of the Bench chemistry competition. Twenty six students in Years 9 to 11 took part, each completing a practical task and answering some multiple choice questions. Isadora (pictured front row, right with fellow participants) explains more.
Isadora, Year 10
Chemistry is an inseparable part of my life and by taking part in the Top of the Bench competition, I feel even closer to it. In the multiple choice quiz, we were asked about some chemistry fundamentals, including different types of bonding, the apparatus used in certain experiments and the order of the periodic table. In the practical, we tested the reactions between different substances to deduce their chemical properties. There were also some follow-up questions about one of the substances. Although they were quite tricky, we managed to answer the questions by inference. This helped me develop my critical thinking and analytical skills as we had to dig in to the conclusion step by step.
Overall, the Top of the Bench competition was a very enjoyable experience where we successfully applied our chemical knowledge and practical skills.