SnitchSeeker.com
Page 12 of 12 « First 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Show 100 post(s) from this thread on one page

SnitchSeeker.com (https://www.snitchseeker.com/forum.php)
-   Term 31: May - August 2012 (https://www.snitchseeker.com/term-31-may-august-2012/)
-   -   Introduction to Alchemy (https://www.snitchseeker.com/term-31-may-august-2012/introduction-to-alchemy-89842/)

TakemetotheBurrow 06-05-2012 12:45 AM
Post 5: Leaving table 7 and headed back to 9
 
Ella sat looking at the mortar and pestle, wondering what else could be crushed inside of it that Chelle's group could investigate. "You know, I suppose anything of the solids could be crushed up in here. Though probably only ones that would be combined to with something else would be. You know, to create something new..." Did that even make sense? All this alchemy stuff was starting to kind of swish around in Ella's brain, causing her to get confused. Realizing that she'd been hanging at table 7 for a bit, she decided to head back. "Hey Chelle, I'm going to return to my table and see if Min and Nate have come up with anything new." She waved at her first year friend and headed back to her group.

Upon returning, Ella sat down and eyed the apparatus on her table again curiously. "You totally have to be an incinerator." She said with a firm nod before looking at her groupmates. "Anyone find out anything else while I was browsing?"

Cedric 06-05-2012 03:05 AM
Post 2, Table 6
 
SPOILER!!: Stella!
Quote:
Originally Posted by SilverTiger (Post 11075581)

As Professor Schirmer had gotten to her table, and started explaining the little apparatus that was sitting on it, Stella had to bite her tongue so as not to sigh, or roll her eyes, or outwardly show any of the exasperation she was feeling at the first sentence out of the professor's mouth. Of course I had to end up at the difficult table, she thought, glancing down at Paulie again as the description continued. Well, they knew it was a kind of furnace, which obviously meant that there was fire involved. Burning, heating, a process like that, but she still was entirely unsure of how exactly they were going to decipher what their apparatus was.

Because of that very fact, the first thing she did once the explanations concluded and they were told to answer the questions posed to themselves and the other tables was to go up to the front and pick up a few of the textbooks the professor had indicated they could use. Besides, they'd been told they might have to refer to other sources, and she was comfortable with books. Books were where she'd gotten most of the alchemy knowledge she already had, after all, and she flipped the first open as soon as she'd returned to her seat. "I think...," she began, glancing up at her partner the head boy before going back to the book and her thoughts, "this might be a kind of athanor." At least, the book described that as kind of a furnace. There was sort of the domed roof, and it looked to be clay, and she slid the book over toward Paulie carefully so he could read the description. Now they just needed to figure out the symbol or symbols related to that description.


Oh, for Merlin's sake!

How did Paulie manage to zone out so badly? Alchemy was actually a somewhat interesting subject, and here he was.. off in his own little world! His only excuse was that he did have a lot on his mind; but then again, didn't all the other seventh years? And younger years, too? The answer was 'yes,' so Paulie could only muster an apologetic, slightly embarrassed look when he met her eyes. "Sorry, Stella.." For leaving HER to represent them this whole time. "Next time just hit me or somethin'." He offered a small smile.

Anyway. Back to business. He eyed their object - a difficult one, of course - and then looked to the book that Stella had retrieved. "I think you're right about it being an athanor," he nodded. The Gryffindor read a little further, then placed his forefinger by the parts that covered symbols and read verbatim from the text. "The mountain is a symbol for the athanor, since the perfection of the metals takes place under the guise of Nature within mountains. Sometimes a hollow oak tree is used to symbolize the athanor." He skimmed the section again, then added. "It talks about it being represented by the human body, too. So.. I guess it's symbolized by a human body, mountain, and sometimes a hollow Oak tree..?" Paulie turned to look at Stella, then gave a sort of half-shrug with one shoulder. "I think the text sorta makes it sound like the mountain is the most commonly used symbol for the athanor." Or, that's what he thought it seemed like, at least.

Anna Banana 06-05-2012 03:55 AM
Post 1, Table 1! *is going to ATTEMPT this*
 
*bliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiink*

What in the name of all Hades was going on?! For the first few seconds of the activity, Sierra just stood there, blinking at Schirmer and wondering what language she was speaking. Yes, she saw items at all the tables. Yes, she had a worksheet. No, she didn't know what to do with either.

Finally, she found herself walking, much in the same way a robot would, to table one. "Err, just so you know, I have no idea what we're doing," she said. Yeah. Best to get that out in the open now. Pointing at the object, she said, "I know this is a distiller," which they'd likely already figured out, "but I have no idea what relates to it. Have you figured that out yet?"

Flipping through her handouts, she said, "Maybe it's this distillare," she said, ppinting to the word. "Looks like distiller to me." She shrugged. She was no Ravenclaw.

OOC: Hey, guys. ^_^ I understand Sierra is at a table where the item has already been figured out. SHE hasn't figured it out herself, though, and since I joined in late and don't have a table, she's more or less trying to figure things out on her own (with LOTS of help from others, since she's having a bit of trouble at the moment). ;)

FireboltAvis88 06-05-2012 04:32 AM
Post 7: Thanks Kurumi. Crossing back to Table 2 and Gideon, Seline and Oakey
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by MyPatronusIsaMoose (Post 11076531)
Cool so now they were down to six different options thanks to Oakey. He was happy to have helped some. But this class had more memorization of Latin than Transfiguration did, and Oakey's mind was spinning trying to place all of these different words that sounded made-up.

He watched as Alyssa stood and gathered more information from the others at Table One. He was still terribly confused from all this crazy talk and tried to follow, but all he got out of it was that his six were narrowed down to two... but the curcurbita and retorta were not it either? He gazed at the two on the sheet that weren't to far from each other on the list. He flipped through his textbook as well to see if he could find different symbols for the two. He just kept flipping through the book but nothing came to mind. Could he slam his face on the desk to rid himself of this painful headache yet?
Alyssa looked at the confused look on Oakey's face and laughed. "I'm equally as confused but I think that we're still on the right track. If we read what the Alchemy definition of what cucurbita means in the textbook it fits the description of the receptacle." Alyssa showed Oakey.

"See the definition of Cucurbita is the lower part of a still, containing the original liquid. It is made of glass or earthenware and was also known as a "gourd" on account of its shape; a receiver." Alyssa rubbed her head. She was starting to get a headache too. "See gourd just like the Professor hinted."

"I think that Cucurbita is still our best bet, just like you suggested, and I think that I'm done thinking. My brain just fried." Alyssa sighed sitting back in her chair. She waited to see what her other team mates had to say.

Vanillasweetheart 06-05-2012 05:13 AM
Post 4, Table #7, and moving to Table #9
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow (Post 11076178)

Ella waved when she saw that Chelle was part of group 7. It was nice seeing the first year again. "Hey Chelle!" She greeted with a smile. When Chelle showed Ella the definition, Ella read it, following along with her finger so she didn't miss anything. "Well that does mention the instrument so you're probably on the right track." She said with an encouraging nod.

When asked about her own table, Ella gestured with her head to the object on table 9. "Our table is doing pretty good. I believe our apparatus is some kind of incinerator for burning things and turning them to ash." She said with a shrug. "Although I'm not quite sure if that's right. The apparatus does have that opening at the top. I think that might be where the smoke would go out of so..." So Ella was sticking to her theory unless someone else had a better idea. In that case, she'd be eager to her what else the object could be.
Chelle smiled as Ella gave her an encouraging nod. Looking into her textbook once again, she found something else. "The textbook also says that calcination is a process just before trituration, so maybe if I can find out what calcination is..."

Quote:
Calcination
The first operation in alchemical transformation. It is denoted by the symbol for the first sign of the zodiac, Aries.
"Then maybe the symbol we're looking for is either the symbol for Calcination, or the symbol of one of the solid substances involved in the process of trituration. I think it's most probably Mercury, but I can't tell..." Chelle sighed. She was suddenly tired of this. Alchemy was really not her thing.

Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow (Post 11076575)
Ella sat looking at the mortar and pestle, wondering what else could be crushed inside of it that Chelle's group could investigate. "You know, I suppose anything of the solids could be crushed up in here. Though probably only ones that would be combined to with something else would be. You know, to create something new..." Did that even make sense? All this alchemy stuff was starting to kind of swish around in Ella's brain, causing her to get confused. Realizing that she'd been hanging at table 7 for a bit, she decided to head back. "Hey Chelle, I'm going to return to my table and see if Min and Nate have come up with anything new." She waved at her first year friend and headed back to her group.

Upon returning, Ella sat down and eyed the apparatus on her table again curiously. "You totally have to be an incinerator." She said with a firm nod before looking at her groupmates. "Anyone find out anything else while I was browsing?"
Chelle nodded encouragingly as Ella tried to help her out. "Thanks," she told her. At least Ella was thinking; Chelle was already losing her mind.

Then she decided to walk over to Ella's table to see if she could help her out. "Maybe I could come with you," she said as she walked over to Table 9. She had carried her textbook with her. Judging from what Ella had told her about the device, the closest thing she could find to an incinerator was something called an 'Athanor."

"Hey, Ella, check this out," Chelle said, sliding the open textbook over to Ella's side. She wasn't sure if that was correct, but it was worth a try anyway.

Quote:
Athanor
From the Arabic word "al-tannur" (oven), the athanor is the furnace used by the alchemists to perfect matter. Built of brick or clay, the athanor usually was shaped like a tower with a domed roof and was designed to keep an even heat over long periods of time. The alchemists considered it an incubator and sometimes referred to it as the "House of the Chick." Symbolically, the athanor is also the human body and the fire of bodily metabolism that fuels our transformation and the ultimate creation of a Second Body of light. The mountain is a symbol for the athanor, since the perfection of the metals takes place under the guise of Nature within mountains. Sometimes a hollow oak tree is used to symbolize the athanor.

SilverTiger 06-05-2012 07:20 AM
Post 3 (post 2 for me), Table 6
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Cedric (Post 11076789)
Oh, for Merlin's sake!

How did Paulie manage to zone out so badly? Alchemy was actually a somewhat interesting subject, and here he was.. off in his own little world! His only excuse was that he did have a lot on his mind; but then again, didn't all the other seventh years? And younger years, too? The answer was 'yes,' so Paulie could only muster an apologetic, slightly embarrassed look when he met her eyes. "Sorry, Stella.." For leaving HER to represent them this whole time. "Next time just hit me or somethin'." He offered a small smile.

Anyway. Back to business. He eyed their object - a difficult one, of course - and then looked to the book that Stella had retrieved. "I think you're right about it being an athanor," he nodded. The Gryffindor read a little further, then placed his forefinger by the parts that covered symbols and read verbatim from the text. "The mountain is a symbol for the athanor, since the perfection of the metals takes place under the guise of Nature within mountains. Sometimes a hollow oak tree is used to symbolize the athanor." He skimmed the section again, then added. "It talks about it being represented by the human body, too. So.. I guess it's symbolized by a human body, mountain, and sometimes a hollow Oak tree..?" Paulie turned to look at Stella, then gave a sort of half-shrug with one shoulder. "I think the text sorta makes it sound like the mountain is the most commonly used symbol for the athanor." Or, that's what he thought it seemed like, at least.
Looking around the room, all the discussions going on around her only made Stella that much more worried that they weren't going to be able to identify their apparatus correctly. Because of course she didn't want to just take a wild guess and be entirely incorrect, not when it was Professor Schirmer teaching the lesson. She had to figur ethat the fact they'd been told their item was more difficult was a self-fulfiling prophecy, though. It was difficult just because they expected it to be. She just needed to focus, and then maybe the correct answer would appear in the books she'd picked up, or in the handouts. At least Paulie had finally snapped out of his trance, so she wasn't going at it all by herself, and she gave him a smile at the comment. "It's fine," she said, "I doubt Professor Schirmer would appreciate me hitting you anyway." Or maybe she would. There had been that whole argument last year at the end-of-term feast that they'd all witnessed, after all. In any case, the head boy was paying attention now.

He also seemed to agree with her about the possibility that their item was some sort of athanor, or a representation of one. The parts he'd read from the book made sense, too, although she wasn't entirely sure if that was what the professor had meant by the alchemical symbols. Which was why she'd referred back to the handouts, along with various terms that came up regarding that description. "Well, it seems like either fire or earth would be an elemental symbol for an athanor. The book specifically mentions fire, and then mountains are obviously earth," she said, semi-just speaking her thoughts aloud. "And the symbol for fire is an upright triangle," she added, pointing at the symbol next to 'ignis' on one of the handouts. "That looks like a mountain to me. But I'm not sure what processes are associated with an athanor. It's described more as an incubator than an incinerator, after all. Calcination is associated with fire," she continued, pointing at the symbol next to 're. Calcinare' on the handout, "but I'm not sure if that makes sense with everything else." In fact, very little made sense to her with this, which only brought her back to the idea that they'd ended up with an almost impossible task.

TeafortheSoul 06-08-2012 10:22 AM
*finally gets a post in*
 
Althea did not interfere as the students puzzled things out. She was pretty pleased with their progress though, and the enthusiasm for what was a difficult task. Hopefully they'd retain what they were learning.

"Alright everyone, time is up. Great work." She paused and waited for them to return to their seats. "Table 1 is an Alembic. The symbol is the one next to the word 'Alembicus' on your handout. Nicely done, Miss Hollingberry, Miss Carter." And the others of course. She had noticed young Vickers and his enthusiasm for the Alembic and understanding for how it worked, and his willingness to explain it to Louisa, who in turn explained it. That was the best way to understand how things worked.

"Table 2 is a Cucurbit. The symbol is the one next to the word 'Cucurbita' on your hand out. Good work with that one, I know it was tricky. Good logic Mr Gunter, good work confirming, Miss Potter." Team work. Hufflepuffs were good at that, even if they thought they were confused.

"Table 3 is a Retort. The symbol is that which is next to the word 'Retorta'." She moved on to the next one.

"Table 4 is an Aludel. The symbol next to 'Sublimare' would have been fitting." As well as a few others, but that was the purpose of the Aludel after all.

"Table 5 is a Crucible. The symbol is that which is next to the word 'Crucibiliare' is the correct symbol." Though cupel was a good guess.

"Table 6 is an Athanor. The Alchemical symbol is in one of the additional books, it resembles a mountain. You could have selected the symbol for 'Incinerare', or any other relating to burning and heating processes. Good work, Miss Gardiner, and Excellent job finding the symbol, Mr Foster." She was impressed.

"Table 7 is a Mortar and Pestle, there are many possible symbols for this one as you may have realised, because quite often substances do in fact need crushing. Those of you who are clever with your Latin may also have spotted a symbol for the actual process of pulverising a substance. Good work, Miss Adams for identifying it, and good researching." She was a good Ravenclaw, clearly.

"Table 8 is a Bain-marie. Looks a bit like what might be used in a kitchen doesn't it? For good reason. Its rather good for melting chocolate for instance. A heat-related symbol would have been sufficient, though I'd willingly accept most any substance symbol as long as you could justify it. Good job applying your cooking knowledge, Miss Hollingberry." That was how she'd first recognised it too.

"Table 9 is a Calcinator or a Calciner. The symbol for 'Calcinare' was what I was looking for. Good work finding the 12 processes, Miss Bishop, and Miss Adams, good work identifying that the symbol for Calcination is the correct one." She was impressed with those two, doing well keeping up in a NEWT level lesson.

"And finally, Table 10 is an Alembic cap. This is a piece of an Alembic as what you see on Table 1. The word Alembic refers to this part, and to the apparatus as a whole. 'Destillaire' is the correct choice for that one. Note the symbol for a long S sound. Not to be confused with an F." She gave the Ravenclaw prefect a wink, and Mr Vanderbilt a nod at his correction. There was some more teamwork there.

"Some of you might have noticed that the symbols in many instances actually resemble what they are supposed to represent. Good spotting if you did."

Aaaand....

"That is all we have time for everyone. I realise this has been a fairly theory-intensive lesson, but you all did well. I hope that the notes provided will be of some use to you, and for any of you who think you might be interested in studying Alchemy in the future do feel free to owl me at the ministry with any questions. I've included some extra information in the notes which I'll leave up for you all to copy as you wish."

Thea put the homework up on the board.

SPOILER!!: homework


Quote:
OOC: Please PM this to Tegz with your username, usernumber, house, character name and year. IE if I were submitting it I'd include:

Tegz
89590
Slytherin
West Odessa, First Year


Title the PM 'Alchemy Homework'

This assignment is due Saturday 30 June 1am GMT
1) Short essay /5 points
Choose one famous Alchemist and research the following:
1a) What was their contribution to the field of Alchemy?
1b) When were they alive?
1c) Are they Muggle or Magical? If you can't find out for sure, guess and explain your choice.
1d) Name one piece of Alchemical equipment they used, or guess at a piece of Alchemical equipment they used, and explain why you think they would have used it.
1e) Find an interesting fact about your chosen Alchemist to share.
You can present this as a short essay or address the questions seperately, its up to you.

2) Short answer questions
2a) Choose any one of your other class subjects and explain how it is linked to Alchemy. (2 points)
2b) According to the Alchemist Michael Maier, who were the four women who knew how to make the philosopher's stone? (1 point)
2c)Choose any two symbols from your hand outs, investigate what they mean, and explain how they are used in Alchemy (2 points)

Please note that up to 5 points extra credit may be given for this assignment for thoughtful or outstanding answers, particularly where answers remain concise, informative, and original.


"You're dismissed. I'll leave a list of recommended Alchemy books with your librarian for those of you interested in extra research."

... and now they could leave. She had things to do.

FireboltAvis88 06-08-2012 04:22 PM
Alyssa heaved a sigh of relief when she discovered that their team had got their answer right. She smiled over at Gideon, Selina and Oakey. "Yay...We got it right. I know that I wouldn't have gotten the answer with all of your help. It was great working with all of you and I hope that we get to work together again."Alyssa said before picking up her quill copying down their homework assignment for the class.

Once she was done, she packed up her things and walked up to Professor Schirmer. "Thank you for taking the time to come back to teach us, Professor. Do you need help collecting the receptacles. This is my last class for today and I don't mind helping." Alyssa told the Professor offering her help.

TakemetotheBurrow 06-08-2012 05:02 PM
So the lesson was over then?! And Ella had survived! This was great! The second year was quite pleased with the whole thing, surprised that she had actually identified the correct symbol. She quickly copied down the last notes she needed in case of homework and packed up her things. "Hey Chelle, thanks for the help." She said to her young friend with a smile.

On her way out of the classroom, Ella stopped and smiled at the Professor. "Thanks for a cool lesson, it was definitely interesting." And then the second year headed out to the corridor.

oh its Erik ok 06-08-2012 08:21 PM
So the lesson was over. Nigel quickly copied down the rest of the notes on the definitions of the objects at each table. He then copied down the long homework assignment. Boy was his hand getting a cramp.

Once he was finished writing he put all his stuff away and on the way to the door said "Thanks for the lesson Professor Schirmer it was really interesting". He left wondering what to do now, eat or start on some more homework.

Magical Soul 06-08-2012 09:40 PM
Louisa returned to their table from Kurumi's as soon as the professor called for their attention again. She put her stuff down and smiled at Schirmer when she complimented her work... with Kurumi, but still. It was really promising for her to be complimented in ALCHEMY.

And then she grinned when the F and S mistake came out, glad that the woman didn't make a fool out of Louisa in front of the FIRSTIES who had to believe their Prefect was a know-it-all and always right. Yes, that was what Prefects were to firsties. Louisa made sure they did.

Then they were done. Siiiigh. The girl scribbled down the homework notes on her personal parchment and then tidied the table as much as possible, tossing all her stuff into her bad and sliding it on her shoulder. "Thank you professor for the lesson. It was...." Hard, impossible, intense, "..different. It was good to see you again." And since they weren't going to see each other again, Louisa widened her smile and waved good bye.

sweetpinkpixie 06-09-2012 05:16 AM
Kurumi returned to her seat and listened as Professor Schirmer wrapped things up. She was rather disappointed in herself for not walking around a bit more to see what the other items were, but the fact that her, Louisa, and Vickers had managed to figure out the one at their table had been worth it. She could always look up the other items later in the library to see what they were....or....

The Gryffindor blushed a bit when her efforts were acknowledge and she chewed on her lip as she continued to take notes furiously. Hopefully she was spelling some of these items correctly. She really didn't have a clue....Latin and all.

Once class had been dismissed, Kurumi packed up her things and slung her bag over her shoulder as she flashed Lewis a quick smile. She would be seeing him after class soon for some studying in the library. Kurumi then made her way up to Professor Schirmer, a shy smile playing on her lips. "It was really nice to be in class with you again, Professor," she said, offering a polite bow. "Would it be alright if I take a look at the items I didn't get a chance to during the activity before I leave?" She wouldn't if the woman had to be somewhere right away. She was a Department Head at the Ministry after all.

Anna Banana 06-09-2012 05:28 AM
WHAAAAAAAT?!

The class was over?! ...but, Sierra had just figured out what to do! Well, ...somewhat. She was at least asking what to do. That had to count for something, right? Ehh, maybe not. Maybe so, though. It should, at least as far as Sierra was concerned.

Sierra scrambled to copy down the list of famous alchemists:

Text Cut: Listttt
Famous Alchemists
Albertus Magnus
Albus Dumbledore
Carl Jung
Chang Tao Ling
Cleopatra the Alchemist
Cornelius Agrippa
Enki
Hermes Trismegistus
Ibn Umail
John Dee
Mary Anne Atwood
Mary the Jewess
Merlin
Nagarjuna
Nicholas Flamel
Olympiodorus of Thebes
Ostanes the Persian
Paracelsus
Pseudo-Geber
Robert Boyle
Roger Bacon
Salomon Trismosin
Samuel de Falk
Sir Isaac Newton
Wei Boyang
Yogi Vemana
Zhang Guo the Elder
Zosimus of Panapolis


Then it was on to copying down the homework, which Sierra of course frowned at. Alchemy homework. Blahhh. When that was done, Sierra shoved her materials into her bag, leaving her area all nice and clean, then headed up to Schirmer. "Err, Professor Schirmer?" she asked. *AHEM* She had a question, and she'd rather the entire world not hear it. "Err, I have a question."

TeafortheSoul 06-09-2012 05:37 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88 (Post 11081953)
Alyssa heaved a sigh of relief when she discovered that their team had got their answer right. She smiled over at Gideon, Selina and Oakey. "Yay...We got it right. I know that I wouldn't have gotten the answer with all of your help. It was great working with all of you and I hope that we get to work together again."Alyssa said before picking up her quill copying down their homework assignment for the class.

Once she was done, she packed up her things and walked up to Professor Schirmer. "Thank you for taking the time to come back to teach us, Professor. Do you need help collecting the receptacles. This is my last class for today and I don't mind helping." Alyssa told the Professor offering her help.
"... the receptacles?" Althea responded and then paused, trying to figure out what Alyssa was actually trying to offer. The usual clean up thing? Pshhh. The girl needed to relax. "Thank you Alyssa but that won't be necessary. Perhaps you ought to go get started on your homework since you have time to spare today." She smiled at the Hufflepuff, sure that whatever she turned in would be interesting.


Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow (Post 11081994)
So the lesson was over then?! And Ella had survived! This was great! The second year was quite pleased with the whole thing, surprised that she had actually identified the correct symbol. She quickly copied down the last notes she needed in case of homework and packed up her things. "Hey Chelle, thanks for the help." She said to her young friend with a smile.

On her way out of the classroom, Ella stopped and smiled at the Professor. "Thanks for a cool lesson, it was definitely interesting." And then the second year headed out to the corridor.
"You did a great job, Miss Bishop. I could see a future for you in Alchemical studies." She watched the second year leave and already another student was there.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Meizzner (Post 11082239)
So the lesson was over. Nigel quickly copied down the rest of the notes on the definitions of the objects at each table. He then copied down the long homework assignment. Boy was his hand getting a cramp.

Once he was finished writing he put all his stuff away and on the way to the door said "Thanks for the lesson Professor Schirmer it was really interesting". He left wondering what to do now, eat or start on some more homework.
"No problem. Good work keeping up." She said with an encouraging smile for the firstie. Too bad he wasn't old enough to have attended her charms lessons, he had promise.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Magical Soul (Post 11082317)
Louisa returned to their table from Kurumi's as soon as the professor called for their attention again. She put her stuff down and smiled at Schirmer when she complimented her work... with Kurumi, but still. It was really promising for her to be complimented in ALCHEMY.

And then she grinned when the F and S mistake came out, glad that the woman didn't make a fool out of Louisa in front of the FIRSTIES who had to believe their Prefect was a know-it-all and always right. Yes, that was what Prefects were to firsties. Louisa made sure they did.

Then they were done. Siiiigh. The girl scribbled down the homework notes on her personal parchment and then tidied the table as much as possible, tossing all her stuff into her bad and sliding it on her shoulder. "Thank you professor for the lesson. It was...." Hard, impossible, intense, "..different. It was good to see you again." And since they weren't going to see each other again, Louisa widened her smile and waved good bye.
"You did really well Miss Carter. It was good to see you again too." She actually returned the wave and smile.


Quote:
Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie (Post 11082850)
Kurumi returned to her seat and listened as Professor Schirmer wrapped things up. She was rather disappointed in herself for not walking around a bit more to see what the other items were, but the fact that her, Louisa, and Vickers had managed to figure out the one at their table had been worth it. She could always look up the other items later in the library to see what they were....or....

The Gryffindor blushed a bit when her efforts were acknowledge and she chewed on her lip as she continued to take notes furiously. Hopefully she was spelling some of these items correctly. She really didn't have a clue....Latin and all.

Once class had been dismissed, Kurumi packed up her things and slung her bag over her shoulder as she flashed Lewis a quick smile. She would be seeing him after class soon for some studying in the library. Kurumi then made her way up to Professor Schirmer, a shy smile playing on her lips. "It was really nice to be in class with you again, Professor," she said, offering a polite bow. "Would it be alright if I take a look at the items I didn't get a chance to during the activity before I leave?" She wouldn't if the woman had to be somewhere right away. She was a Department Head at the Ministry after all.
"Of course you can, Miss Hollingberry. Take all the time you need." But you know, not too much? She was just being polite really. Thea had plans that did NOT involve students. Not that she expected the girl to linger too long.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Anna Banana (Post 11082865)
WHAAAAAAAT?!

The class was over?! ...but, Sierra had just figured out what to do! Well, ...somewhat. She was at least asking what to do. That had to count for something, right? Ehh, maybe not. Maybe so, though. It should, at least as far as Sierra was concerned.

Sierra scrambled to copy down the list of famous alchemists:

Text Cut: Listttt
Famous Alchemists
Albertus Magnus
Albus Dumbledore
Carl Jung
Chang Tao Ling
Cleopatra the Alchemist
Cornelius Agrippa
Enki
Hermes Trismegistus
Ibn Umail
John Dee
Mary Anne Atwood
Mary the Jewess
Merlin
Nagarjuna
Nicholas Flamel
Olympiodorus of Thebes
Ostanes the Persian
Paracelsus
Pseudo-Geber
Robert Boyle
Roger Bacon
Salomon Trismosin
Samuel de Falk
Sir Isaac Newton
Wei Boyang
Yogi Vemana
Zhang Guo the Elder
Zosimus of Panapolis


Then it was on to copying down the homework, which Sierra of course frowned at. Alchemy homework. Blahhh. When that was done, Sierra shoved her materials into her bag, leaving her area all nice and clean, then headed up to Schirmer. "Err, Professor Schirmer?" she asked. *AHEM* She had a question, and she'd rather the entire world not hear it. "Err, I have a question."
"Miss Greingoth." Thea turned her attention to the young Slytherin and smiled. "Sure, how can I help?"

Anna Banana 06-09-2012 05:43 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11082878)
"Miss Greingoth." Thea turned her attention to the young Slytherin and smiled. "Sure, how can I help?"
Sierra shot a glare in Kurumi Hollingberry's direction. Of course the girl just had to go and be a goody two shoes and ask to do extra work. Deep down inside, Sierra knew she was just jealous that Kurumi seemed to be so perfect, but she'd never really admit that to herself.

Hearing her name, Sierra straightened her posture, dropped the glare, and turned back toward Schirmer. She looked around, making double and triple sure there was no one that would hear her. "So I, ...pretty much didn't really understand the lesson. Err, not that I need any extra help or tutoring or anything," she said, trailing off just a bit. For the love of Merlin, she didn't want someone else helping her. She'd feel the weakest of weak in that case. "...but I was just wondering, ...can I base my homework assignment on you?"

Yeah, she'd heard the whole spill on how Schirmer wasn't technically an alchemist, but she'd taught this class, which was a good enough accomplishment for Sierra.

TeafortheSoul 06-09-2012 05:59 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Anna Banana (Post 11082883)
Sierra shot a glare in Kurumi Hollingberry's direction. Of course the girl just had to go and be a goody two shoes and ask to do extra work. Deep down inside, Sierra knew she was just jealous that Kurumi seemed to be so perfect, but she'd never really admit that to herself.

Hearing her name, Sierra straightened her posture, dropped the glare, and turned back toward Schirmer. She looked around, making double and triple sure there was no one that would hear her. "So I, ...pretty much didn't really understand the lesson. Err, not that I need any extra help or tutoring or anything," she said, trailing off just a bit. For the love of Merlin, she didn't want someone else helping her. She'd feel the weakest of weak in that case. "...but I was just wondering, ...can I base my homework assignment on you?"

Yeah, she'd heard the whole spill on how Schirmer wasn't technically an alchemist, but she'd taught this class, which was a good enough accomplishment for Sierra.
Thea listened closely and perched on the desk.

"I suppose so. Perhaps you can think of some questions you might want to ask me, and owl them?" She didn't MIND Sierra doing it about her, especially if it succeeded in getting the young snake to make some effort in actually researching and attempting to understand the concepts she introduced in the lesson.

"And honestly, its NEWT level material, Sierra. You did well enough keeping up. The idea is to introduce the concepts for further study and give an idea of what study in this field actually entails. Don't feel bad for finding it difficult - I know you'd be capable of the work, were you interested in making a go of it."

Anna Banana 06-09-2012 06:05 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11082889)
Thea listened closely and perched on the desk.

"I suppose so. Perhaps you can think of some questions you might want to ask me, and owl them?" She didn't MIND Sierra doing it about her, especially if it succeeded in getting the young snake to make some effort in actually researching and attempting to understand the concepts she introduced in the lesson.

"And honestly, its NEWT level material, Sierra. You did well enough keeping up. The idea is to introduce the concepts for further study and give an idea of what study in this field actually entails. Don't feel bad for finding it difficult - I know you'd be capable of the work, were you interested in making a go of it."
Suddenly, Sierra made a sort of flailing motion in the professor's direction. Professor. Department Head. Alchemist. Whatever she was. Either way, she got a flail. Or two. That flail was almost saying, Professor!!! SHHHH!!!! Sierra had issues with failure, and she sincerely hoped nobody overhead that whole NEWT-level part.

"Right, ...thanks, Professor," she said. She'd always be professor to Sierra. "I'll get those figured out and owled to you as soon as possible." Then she edged a bit closer and quitened down again. "Right, err...this isn't going to be on my OWLs, is it? Only my NEWTs?"

TeafortheSoul 06-09-2012 06:35 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Anna Banana (Post 11082899)
Suddenly, Sierra made a sort of flailing motion in the professor's direction. Professor. Department Head. Alchemist. Whatever she was. Either way, she got a flail. Or two. That flail was almost saying, Professor!!! SHHHH!!!! Sierra had issues with failure, and she sincerely hoped nobody overhead that whole NEWT-level part.

"Right, ...thanks, Professor," she said. She'd always be professor to Sierra. "I'll get those figured out and owled to you as soon as possible." Then she edged a bit closer and quitened down again. "Right, err...this isn't going to be on my OWLs, is it? Only my NEWTs?"

Althea was amused but she didn't show it, since she didn't want to upset her.

"Of course." She didn't mind helping. Thea listened to the next part and lowered her own voice. "Only NEWTs, and only if you elect to study it." She assured her.

Anna Banana 06-09-2012 06:44 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11082935)

Althea was amused but she didn't show it, since she didn't want to upset her.

"Of course." She didn't mind helping. Thea listened to the next part and lowered her own voice. "Only NEWTs, and only if you elect to study it." She assured her.
"Oh," Sierra said, nodding in understanding. Good. She could drop this like a hot potato if she wanted to. ...and she did want to. It just wasn't her thing, or...maybe it was, and she was just too confused at the moment to realize it. Either way, she was glad the class was done.

"I don't suppose I could...carry your bag out for any extra fifteen points, hmm?" she asked. Then she backed away and grinned. "Just kidding." She could carry her own blasted bag out the door. "Anyway, thanks again, and...I'll owl you soon."

With a little wave, she rocked back on her heels then turned and headed for the door.

Steelsheen 06-09-2012 09:21 AM
SPOILER!!: Schirmer
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11081751)
Althea did not interfere as the students puzzled things out. She was pretty pleased with their progress though, and the enthusiasm for what was a difficult task. Hopefully they'd retain what they were learning.

"Alright everyone, time is up. Great work." She paused and waited for them to return to their seats. "Table 1 is an Alembic. The symbol is the one next to the word 'Alembicus' on your handout. Nicely done, Miss Hollingberry, Miss Carter." And the others of course. She had noticed young Vickers and his enthusiasm for the Alembic and understanding for how it worked, and his willingness to explain it to Louisa, who in turn explained it. That was the best way to understand how things worked.

"Table 2 is a Cucurbit. The symbol is the one next to the word 'Cucurbita' on your hand out. Good work with that one, I know it was tricky. Good logic Mr Gunter, good work confirming, Miss Potter." Team work. Hufflepuffs were good at that, even if they thought they were confused.

"Table 3 is a Retort. The symbol is that which is next to the word 'Retorta'." She moved on to the next one.

"Table 4 is an Aludel. The symbol next to 'Sublimare' would have been fitting." As well as a few others, but that was the purpose of the Aludel after all.

"Table 5 is a Crucible. The symbol is that which is next to the word 'Crucibiliare' is the correct symbol." Though cupel was a good guess.

"Table 6 is an Athanor. The Alchemical symbol is in one of the additional books, it resembles a mountain. You could have selected the symbol for 'Incinerare', or any other relating to burning and heating processes. Good work, Miss Gardiner, and Excellent job finding the symbol, Mr Foster." She was impressed.

"Table 7 is a Mortar and Pestle, there are many possible symbols for this one as you may have realised, because quite often substances do in fact need crushing. Those of you who are clever with your Latin may also have spotted a symbol for the actual process of pulverising a substance. Good work, Miss Adams for identifying it, and good researching." She was a good Ravenclaw, clearly.

"Table 8 is a Bain-marie. Looks a bit like what might be used in a kitchen doesn't it? For good reason. Its rather good for melting chocolate for instance. A heat-related symbol would have been sufficient, though I'd willingly accept most any substance symbol as long as you could justify it. Good job applying your cooking knowledge, Miss Hollingberry." That was how she'd first recognised it too.

"Table 9 is a Calcinator or a Calciner. The symbol for 'Calcinare' was what I was looking for. Good work finding the 12 processes, Miss Bishop, and Miss Adams, good work identifying that the symbol for Calcination is the correct one." She was impressed with those two, doing well keeping up in a NEWT level lesson.

"And finally, Table 10 is an Alembic cap. This is a piece of an Alembic as what you see on Table 1. The word Alembic refers to this part, and to the apparatus as a whole. 'Destillaire' is the correct choice for that one. Note the symbol for a long S sound. Not to be confused with an F." She gave the Ravenclaw prefect a wink, and Mr Vanderbilt a nod at his correction. There was some more teamwork there.

"Some of you might have noticed that the symbols in many instances actually resemble what they are supposed to represent. Good spotting if you did."

Aaaand....

"That is all we have time for everyone. I realise this has been a fairly theory-intensive lesson, but you all did well. I hope that the notes provided will be of some use to you, and for any of you who think you might be interested in studying Alchemy in the future do feel free to owl me at the ministry with any questions. I've included some extra information in the notes which I'll leave up for you all to copy as you wish."

Thea put the homework up on the board.

SPOILER!!: homework



1) Short essay /5 points
Choose one famous Alchemist and research the following:
1a) What was their contribution to the field of Alchemy?
1b) When were they alive?
1c) Are they Muggle or Magical? If you can't find out for sure, guess and explain your choice.
1d) Name one piece of Alchemical equipment they used, or guess at a piece of Alchemical equipment they used, and explain why you think they would have used it.
1e) Find an interesting fact about your chosen Alchemist to share.
You can present this as a short essay or address the questions seperately, its up to you.

2) Short answer questions
2a) Choose any one of your other class subjects and explain how it is linked to Alchemy. (2 points)
2b) According to the Alchemist Michael Maier, who were the four women who knew how to make the philosopher's stone? (1 point)
2c)Choose any two symbols from your hand outs, investigate what they mean, and explain how they are used in Alchemy (2 points)

Please note that up to 5 points extra credit may be given for this assignment for thoughtful or outstanding answers, particularly where answers remain concise, informative, and original.


"You're dismissed. I'll leave a list of recommended Alchemy books with your librarian for those of you interested in extra research."

... and now they could leave. She had things to do.

Could this Ravenclaw be any happier now really?

They got everything right about their apparatus, plus the other tables' items as well. But even better he had lots of new resources from this class to further his readings on Alchemy. So it was understandable when he quelled a sigh when the former Charms Professor said the seminar was over.

He copied the homework down quickly, then went over his notes to make sure he didnt miss anything out from the discussions. Finally he stood up and returned his things into his book bag, pausing by the Professor as the students filed out the door "That was a great seminar Professor Schirmer, it was so good to see you again. I-I do hope you could find the chance to come back next term Ma'am." Yeah he still was hoping for another session with an advanced subject like this. He made to speak again, because he reallyyyy wanted to ask her about their missing Astronomy Professor, and why his favorite subject wasnt offered that term but decided against it. He was probably holding up the line with all his dawdling anyway "Uhm... have a nice day Professor, and thank you again." With that he shyly made his way towards the door.

sweetpinkpixie 06-09-2012 10:03 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11082878)
"Of course you can, Miss Hollingberry. Take all the time you need." But you know, not too much? She was just being polite really. Thea had plans that did NOT involve students. Not that she expected the girl to linger too long.
"I won't take up too much more of your time, professor," Kurumi said with another polite but appreciative bow of her head. She really just wanted to take a peek at the ones that she was unfamiliar with. Holding her parchment in front of her as she went, Kurumi stopped briefly at all the tables - minus table 7 because she had seen and used a mortal and pestle in Potions class all the time.

Kurumi was therefore completely oblivious to the glare that Sierra shot at her as well as the conversation the Slytherin had with the former Charms professor. Not that she would have found anything out of the ordinary had she been listening. However, Kurumi's attention was on the objects on the table and taking a few notes along with some simple doodles. Once she was done, Kurumi returned her parchment and quill to her bag.

Waiting until Sierra had finished speaking with Professor Schirmer, Kurumi approached her as Sierra was making her way out the door. "Thank you again, professor. Good luck at the Ministry." And I wish you were still at Hogwarts... "Good day, Professor Scabior," she said politely. When had he arrived in the lesson and why had he just been looming here? Weird.

With that, Kurumi made her way out of the room. She was sure the woman had plans to attend to.


All times are GMT. The time now is 12:57 AM.
Page 12 of 12 « First 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Show 100 post(s) from this thread on one page

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.4
Copyright ©2000 - 2025, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
LinkBacks Enabled by vBSEO 3.3.2 © 2009, Crawlability, Inc.
Site designed by Richard Harris Design


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229