A different way of learning science.
At our International School of Granada, we view scientific learning as a practical, meaningful, and relatable experience—one capable of sparking curiosity and connecting theoretical content with the real world. In this context, our 4th-year secondary students (ESO) participated in a cosmetic chemistry workshop as part of their Physics and Chemistry Lab subject, blending scientific knowledge with creativity.
The chemistry applied to daily life.
The workshop allowed students to approach chemistry from an applied perspective, bringing them closer to real-world processes that are part of their daily lives. Throughout the project, they learned about ingredients, formulations, and chemical processes, gaining an understanding of how different components combine to create a final product with specific properties.
The laboratory as a space for active learning.
During the activity, the laboratory transformed into a dynamic environment where students could observe, experiment, and follow instructions with precision. This type of hands-on approach strengthens scientific thinking and facilitates the understanding of concepts that might otherwise seem too abstract when taught through theory alone.
The crafting of cosmetic products.
One of the highlights was the creation of their own lip balms and lip glosses, a final phase that brought their acquired knowledge to life. Seeing theory transform into a tangible product provided positive reinforcement, significantly boosting student motivation and engagement.
Care, detail, and personal involvement.
The meticulous care with which the students handled each phase of the process reflected their commitment, responsibility, and attention to detail. From preparing the ingredients to the final result, they demonstrated a careful and consistent attitude—values we champion daily at our school in Granada.
Learning that goes beyond the subject.
Beyond scientific content, the workshop encouraged the development of transversal skills such as concentration, organized workflow, and respect for laboratory safety protocols. These competencies are essential during the secondary education stage and contribute to the well-rounded development of our students.
Science and creativity in balance.
The activity highlighted that science can also be a platform for creativity and personal expression. Students enjoyed the process, experimented without fear, and discovered that scientific learning is truly motivating when practiced hands-on.
Enjoying the process and the final result.
Seeing the students enjoy both the development of the activity and the final product was especially rewarding. These experiences generate meaningful learning, strengthen academic self-esteem, and ignite an interest in lifelong learning.
At the International School of Granada, we will continue to promote educational initiatives where students “learn by doing.” This cosmetic chemistry workshop serves as a clear example of how science can be experienced with enthusiasm, rigor, and creativity inside the classroom.
