Design of a Two-Week Organic Chemistry Course for High School Students: “Catalysis, Solar Energy, and Green Chemical Synthesis”

A two-week summer camp was designed, implemented, and then updated for high school students focusing on organic chemistry, solar energy, and green chemistry principles. Students learn about laboratory safety, perform organic reactions, go on field trips, and take part in interactive lessons that focus on both fundamental chemistry topics as well as green chemistry. Each lab experiment implements at least one green chemistry principle by reducing waste or reagent use while employing additional safety measures. The course has been edited and modified on the basis of student feedback to include additional lessons, field trips, a student presentation, and other activities. Responses to postcourse surveys provided feedback on each component and also indicated that student interest in STEM increased as students gained physical laboratory and research skills.