Accidental Discoveries

In this science and serendipity worksheet, students read about how Fleming discovered Penicillin by accident when observing bacteria that didn't grow where mold existed. Students answer questions about scientific discoveries.

Students brainstorm a list of science discoveries and inventions that they think are important. They work in small groups, students examine 1-3 science discoeries more closely. Each group needs a recorder, and they answer three...

Rev your motor with a hands-on activity about electricity. Learners build their own electric motor before reading a handout and answering some questions. 

When they run out of lemons, scientists study lemonade! Many scientific discoveries came from dead-end experiments. The episode of the ACS Reactions series shows how scientists make many discoveries by accident. The highlight of the...

Sometimes you just get lucky. An engaging video in the ACS Reactions series lists some examples of how accidents have led to scientific discoveries. In particular, it focuses the development of dynamite and TNT.

Sometimes the best discoveries happen by chance. Scientists did not plan to find gamma-ray bursts, but that doesn't make the revelation less important! A video lesson in the SciShow Space series discusses the discovery of gamma-ray...

Was the first use of fire intentional or accidental? Although the answer to the question may never be known, we do know that the discovery of fire was a turning point in humans' evolution. Explore the history of fire use and its...

Since it was accidentally discovered in 1938, polytetrafluoroethylene—otherwise known as Teflon—has made its way into many different products. Watch an informative video that describes the science in making Teflon, and its benefits to...

Students become familiar with the role of technology and inventions throughout history. It also show students how inventions have impacted human life today. The accidental nature of discovery also be presented.

Students explore the traits a successful scientist must possess. In this biology lesson, students research articles about an accidental scientific discovery. They share their articles with the class.