Dipping into Organic Chemistry: Molecules, Reactions, and Queso
Let's dive into the details here! If there is one college course that strikes a little fear into the hearts of many students, it just might be Organic Chemistry. At Southside Christian School, students are getting a head start on mastering the "chemistry of life."
In Honors Intro to Organic Chemistry, students are studying carbon-containing molecules. Because carbon is exceptionally versatile at bonding with other atoms, the possibilities and the molecules to learn about are practically endless! After spending the opening weeks of school laying a strong foundation, the class is moving quickly into the naming, geometry, and complex reactions of essential carbon structures.
Designed specifically to prepare students for high-level collegiate science, the course covers most topics from a first-semester college course in the fall, while full-year students get a preview of second-semester organic chemistry and biochemistry.
Of course, learning about carbon isn't limited to textbooks and whiteboards—the real magic happens when theory meets practice. Science Teacher Dr. Andrew Lacroix has crafted a hands-on curriculum packed with a powerful dip:
"Our lab experience is a mix of typical college organic labs (thin-layer chromatography, recrystallization, and the synthesis of aspirin, to name a few) along with labs that explore the application of organic chemistry to our everyday lives (such as the use of sodium citrate to make the perfect queso, and the saponification reaction to make hand soap)."
From synthesizing real aspirin and mastering advanced techniques like chromatography to discovering the exact chemical science behind the perfect gooey queso, SCS students are discovering that organic chemistry isn't just a requirement for the future—it's part of everyday life.
Southside Christian School
Southside Christian School is a mission-driven, college preparatory school dedicated to equipping students of Christian parents to grow in Christ, excel academically, and impact their community. In partnership with the home and local church, Southside Christian fosters a Christ-centered environment where students experience spiritual and personal transformation. The school serves its community through a rigorous academic curriculum featuring over 48 Dual Enrollment, Honors, and AP courses, rich experiential learning opportunities, an award-winning fine arts program, and competitive athletics spanning more than 34 SCHSL teams.
For questions or to schedule a tour for your prospective student, contact our Admissions Coordinators, Caitlyn Reeves (Pre-K 2-Kindergarten), Jessica Jordan (1st-7th grade), and Abby Watson (8th-12th grade). Call 864-234-7595 or email enrollment@southsidechristian.org.
