Why?

The nature of science (also explored in the IB Theory of Knowledge course) is an essential facet in the teaching of chemistry. When shared as an integral part of the syllabus it can improve student engagement and understanding by providing context for its place in modern-day society as well as providing a lens through which students are better able to conceptually grasp the syllabus content. 

This website was originally developed around the IB Diploma Programme Chemistry guide (right) but is applicable to all High School Chemistry curricula.

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IB_chemistry_guide_2016.pdf
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ib_chemistry_guide_2025.pdf
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How?

This website aims to provide resources to help teachers engage students in the nature of science (NOS) aspect of the IB Chemistry Diploma Programme. Features on the website are designed to explore the following questions:
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1. What is the nature of science?
2. What do we want to know in science?
3. What is the scientific endeavour?
4. What type of knowledge do we produce?
5. What is the impact of scientific knowledge?​

What?

This website includes:

• ​Recent news related to the IB Chemistry and TOK.
• Nature of Chemistry activities that focus on core features of how we do chemistry and science more broadly.
• Short, topic-related activities to integrate Nature of Chemistry into classroom teaching.
• A list of scientists who might be considered influential in IB Chemistry content.
• Answers page provides suggestions for each activity.

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Made by?

This website is developed by Oliver Canning, a Teacher of Chemistry and Theory of Knowledge Coordinator at TASIS England. I have also been a contributing author to the new Chemistry guide (first examinations 2025) as well as co-authoring the new Pearson SL and HL textbooks.

Feel free to contact me with any queries or feedback using the form to the right.