Demonstration shows are a staple of chemical education outreach performed by students, faculty, and professional chemists. These shows are highly entertaining and may increase an audience member's interest and regard for science. However, there is no evidence that traditional demonstration shows teach science concepts, a fact that has fueled growing interest in new forms of outreach. Fusion Science Theater (FST) has developed a form that �flips� the order of events of a traditional demonstration show. The �flipped� structure challenges the audience to learn the concept and predict the outcome of the demonstration before it is performed, generating interest as well as conceptual understanding. This session will present examples of the �flipped� form, share the methods used to create it, and present evidence on its effectiveness. It will also report on the success of the undergraduate groups who have performed these shows across the country.

Fusion Science Theater presents: demonstration shows that promote and assess conceptual learning

246th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.