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How We Teach Molecular Structure to Freshmen

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Michael O. Hurst

Department of Chemistry, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30460

J. Chem. Educ., 2002, 79 (6), p 763

DOI: 10.1021/ed079p763

Publication Date (Web): June 1, 2002

Abstract

Currently molecular structure is taught in general chemistry using three theories, this being based more on historical development rather than logical pedagogy. Electronegativity is taught with a confusing mixture of definitions that do not correspond to modern practice. Explaining bond type with electronegativity is also done poorly. Teaching of valence bond theory and molecular orbital theory should be left to upper-level classes where it will be used. Currently, valence bond theory and VSEPR are used together in a way that often confuses the students about the difference between the different theories.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Chemical Education Research

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Misconceptions / Discrepant Events

Keywords (Subject):

Covalent Bonding

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

A New "Bottom-Up" Framework for Teaching Chemical Bonding
Leeor Kronik , Tami Levy Nahum , Rachel Mamlok-Naaman and Avi Hofstein
Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (12), 1680
- A New "Bottom-Up" Framework for Teaching Chemical Bonding
  Leeor Kronik , Tami Levy Nahum , Rachel Mamlok-Naaman and Avi Hofstein
  Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (12), 1680
  Traditional curriculum for teaching bonding often fosters the use of over-simplifications and over-generalizations. Therefore, there is a need for a presentation that is consistent with current scientific knowledge and that provides the student with the ...
  Abstract | Hi-Res PDF | PDF w/ Links