“Performance” in the name Performance Enhanced Interactive Learning refers to the acting out or creative imitation by students of the language and culture associated with a subject, in this case organic chemistry, as they develop as learners of that subject (Holzman 2009). Based on Holzman’s interpretation of education settings, the PEIL workshop can be seen as a zone of proximal development in which organic chemistry students can try out their new language and its associated symbolism in ways that might be just beyond their reach if working alone. Students exchange roles with their instructor and play the part of organic chemists, experimenting with these concepts in front of an audience.