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Chemical Reactions 1

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Unit Summary

In this first unit on chemical reactions, students will explore the world of chemical transformations through 5 lessons covering atom rearrangement, oxidation, equation writing, combustion and thermal decomposition. Through discussions and examples, students will learn foundational reaction types, grasp oxidation's role in changes with oxygen, and gain equation-balancing skills. The unit underscores balancing equations, a key skill, through interactive activities and repeated practice. Students will also explore combustion's energy release and thermal decomposition's breakdown processes. This unit cultivates equation writing, safety awareness and industry relevance, fostering a deep appreciation for chemistry's impact and preparing students for the content covered in the next unit: Chemical Reactions 2. 

During this unit you will hear from the following industry experts:

          Name:                                 Job Title:

1.       Sian Davies                         Analytical Chemist

2.      Seb Turner                          Geologist 

3.      Joan Wales                         Safety & Operational Risk

4.      Arzu Javadova                    Exploration Manager

5.      Nuno                                    Field Geoscientist 

6.      Chris Spears                       Technology Development Engineer

7.       Lauren                                 Director of Structured Products

8.      Andrew                                Natural Gas Trade Analyst

9.      Anna                                    Graduate Programmes Consultant in Human Resources

10,.    Elise                                     Gasoline Trader

This unit has been written by

Dr Peter Klappa

Peter Klappa studied Biology (BSc Hons and MSc) at the Ludwigs-Maximilian University in Munich, Germany, where he also obtained his PhD in molecular and cellular biology. He is a National Teaching Fellow and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. As a trained Biology and Chemistry teacher, Peter has taught sciences for over 30 years, both at pre- and post-entry to university. For his excellence in teaching, Peter has received numerous awards and prizes and was nominated for the Teacher of the Year award by the Higher Education Academy in 2015 and 2019.

Dr Shannon Weldon

Shannon started her journey with Developing Experts by completing PHD placement while studying for her Doctorate in Developmental Biology at the University of East Anglia. Shannon has since joined the team full-time as a Project Manager working with the company's industry partners. Shannon knows a lot about chickens!

Heather Bingham

Heather qualified with a first-class honours degree in climate science from the University of East Anglia. Since, she has joined Developing Experts as a writer and presenter, specialising in earth and environmental sciences.

She is also an internationally published science author, having written a series of CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) digital textbooks aimed at improving learners’ understanding of English whilst igniting an interest in science.

Jonathan Badgery

Jonathan is a leading science writer and presenter. Having attended military school in the UK, Jon attended the University of East Anglia in the UK, where he gained his BSc in Chemical Physics. Following this, Jon completed his PGCE (Post-graduate Certificate of Education), teaching science and leading physics in large city secondary schools in the UK.

Jon is a passionate scientist and specialises in science communication; delivering CPD workshops, science lectures, shows and community science days.

Katie Barrie


Katie is the Chief Operating Officer at DE, which means she oversees HR, finance and our business model. After studying Drama at Exeter University, Katie spent three years as a primary teacher, before relocating to Norfolk and joining Developing Experts. 

In her spare time, Katie likes to sing with Norwich Harmony barbershop chorus and has recently formed a quartet. Katie loves cooking and spending time with her husband, Bryan and dog, Bertie. She has an endearing laugh, which has to be heard to be believed. Many of us see Katie as the office 'Mum', she gives great hugs and keeps our spirits up.  

Contact: [email protected]  

Mike Linley

Mike studied zoology and botany at Durham University and followed this with 3 years of postgraduate study at Bristol University with the Science Research Council.

Mike uses his vast experience to add knowledge and engagement to Developing Experts, particularly within the disciplines of biology and zoology. He has over 20 years TV production experience, including writing and producing nature programmes for the Disney channel and, for a period of time, was Sir David Attenborough’s scientific advisor.

Paul Usher

Paul studied English Literature at Nottingham Trent University and gained his PGCE (Post-graduate Certificate of Education) at the University of East Anglia. Following this, Paul had a successful teaching career, leading English across two large secondary schools and then becoming Vice Principal. He has led several schemes in cross-curricular literacy and has also led teaching and learning in a school, overseeing teacher training and development. Paul has also lectured at universities for graduate teachers.

At Developing Experts, Paul oversees the strategic direction of the curriculum and uses his creativity to structure the teaching and learning strategy. He also edits for accuracy in literacy and liaises with translation services to ensure a high-quality end product.