Tim Jolliff
Tim is an independent, UK based science education consultant and former chemistry teacher of 30 years.
He now tutors online alongside writing, mentoring and developing materials for the RSC. Tim started his career passionate about chemistry and he’s now even more passionate about developing students’ thinking, particularly their metacognition.
ResourceSolutions | Stretch and challenge | 11–14 years
Challenge learners to apply logical reasoning and their knowldge of particle model to explain experimental observations
ExtensionBoiling point: a surprising measurement | Stretch and challenge | 11–14 years
Develop critical thinking skills by guiding learners to evaluate possible explanations for an unexpected experimental result
ExtensionBonding models | Stretch and challenge | 14–16 years
Challenge learners to explore alternative models, using plasticine and cocktail sticks
ExtensionIonic bonding and electron transfer | Stretch and challenge | 14–16 years
Learners evaluate and discuss ideas about ionic bonding, the formation of ions and energetics
CPD articleHow to teach aromatic chemistry at post-16
Tips and ideas to enhance your teaching of conjugated pi systems
CPD articleHow to teach gases at 14–16
Use these classroom activities and tips to boost your students’ understanding of quantitative chemistry
PosterHow to teach electron configurations
Everything you need to help your post-16 students understand orbitals and shells
CPD articleTeaching curly arrows at post-16
Tips and resources to help you teach chemical processes and organic reaction mechanisms
Practical videoElectrochemical cells | practical videos | 16–18 students
Video and supporting resources to support electrochemistry practical work, including two microscale experiments, animation and cell diagrams
DemonstrationThe ‘breathalyser’ reaction | 16–18 years
Try this demonstration to recreate an early ‘breathalyser’ test, passing ethanol vapour through potassium dichromate. Includes kit list and safety instructions
ResourceSwimming pool chemistry | 16–18 years
Synoptic questions explore structure and bonding, equilibrium and spectrometry and spectroscopy in the context of swimming pools
ResourceRusting: a lateral thinking problem | 11–14 years
Learners apply their knowledge of rusting in the context of shipwrecks. A lateral thinking exercise and planning an investigation will help them develop higher-order skills.
ResourceCandle burning investigation: planning an experiment
Concept cartoon and example investigation to practise developing a hypothesis, planning an investigation and evaluation skills
