Demonstration Show That Promotes and Assesses Conceptual Understanding Using the Structure of Drama

Demonstration shows are a widely used form of Informal Science Education. While there is evidence that the shows are highly enjoyable, little work has been done to investigate the cognitive impacts of these shows. This article describes the development and production of The Boiling Point, a show that uses the structure of a play to support investigation of a chemical concept. Evaluation of this show provides evidence that this alternative form of demonstration show is not only enjoyable, but also promotes positive attitudes toward science and increases the audience’s understanding of the target concept, as demonstrated by recurring assessment of concept knowledge embedded within the show.