A high school science classroom was recently transformed into a restaurant setting complete with tablecloths, candles, flowers, and free bread. All to host a unique "speed dating" lesson.

Dr. Michael Delmont, a high school science teacher, turned traditional lectures on their head for his Advanced Placement (AP) Biology and AP Environmental Science students. Instead of memorizing text from a book, his students were tasked with creating dating profiles for cellular organelles, biomes, and habitats.

"This is speed dating day," Delmont said. "It's one of my favorite days of the year."

To prepare for their dates, students put plenty of personality into their assignments by anthropomorphizing their scientific concepts. They drew "selfies" for profile pictures, crafted clever pickup lines, and brainstormed hobbies, locations, and pet peeves based strictly on the traits of their assigned organelle or habitat.

Once the profiles were complete, the matchmaking began. Students spent roughly three minutes per "date" talking with classmates to test their biological and environmental compatibility. The goal was to reason through how different organelles or biomes interact, ultimately determining who their "best match" was and why.

"Speed dating is really fun," said Ava Lavelle, a high school student in Delmont's class. "It's a unique way to learn about how the different organelles interact. And we get to eat some great food."

Delmont noted that changing the physical environment helps spark enthusiasm, though the complimentary carbs are often the biggest draw.

"Every year I'll have kids coming in, 'When do we get the bread? When do we get the bread?'" Delmont laughed, adding that some students even dress up in full costume for the occasion.

The lesson relies on a philosophy of peer-to-peer education. Delmont referenced a lyric written by Phil Collins for the movie Tarzan—"in learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn" as his guiding inspiration for the project.

For students like Lavelle, the interactive approach makes science something to look forward to.

"This class is great," Lavelle said. "The way we learn is awesome. The class has such an inviting feel."

Watch our video here: 🎥 AP Science Students Spark Chemistry During Classroom Speed Dating