Introducing the Role of Enzymes Using Accurate Language

The role of enzymes is to catalyze chemical reactions. However, enzymes are often presented in the classroom and in commonly used textbooks as the agents that produce these reactions through their own activity, instead of as being mere catalysts that accelerate them. Here I suggest that course organization and consistently using accurate statements about the catalytic role of enzymes can contribute to make the learning process more effective when enzymes are introduced to students.