Resumo:

During the International Year of Crystallography, in 2014, Uruguay held the first National Crystal Growing Competition (CNCC, for Concurso Nacional de Crecimiento de Cristales, in Spanish). It was organized by an interdisciplinary group of scientists from different areas such as physics, organic, inorganic, bio- and radio- chemistry, among others. The main goal, aligned with the ones set by the IUCr, was to reach the community introducing them to the exciting world of crystallography by involving young people in growing a single crystal. Throughout the first three editions more than 800 people, ages 7 to 30, participated on the CNCC. The competition involved tutor´s workshops, provided by the organizers, to gain specific knowledge in growing crystals, growing the actual single crystal, keeping detailed records of the experiment and presenting the work as a video at the end to be judged. Participants were judged by the weight and quality of the crystal grown as well as their records of the experiment in terms of creativity and scientific rigor. Conclusions In the first three editions of the contest the contest reached over 800 young interested people who actively participated in the contest. The competition provides an opportunity to apply inquiry based teaching methods that can be used during the school year to introduce different physicochemical concepts. Public awareness of crystallography and its implications in everyday life increased. Participants proudly shared their experiences among themselves and their families in the closing activity enjoying a full-day at the University. “Chemist for a day” has proven to be successful initiative as CNCC´s major prize. Finally, the CNCC has become a happily expected activity for teachers and students alike, presenting new challenges every year.