TEACHING MOLECULAR GEOMETRY USING SOFTWARE: A PROPOSAL FOR A POTENTIALLY MEANINGFUL TEACHING UNIT

Abstract

Teaching molecular geometry presents significant challenges, as it can be limited to simple memorization of names and structures. To achieve meaningful learning of this content, using Digital Information and Communication Technologies (DICT) represents a promising approach to engage students in the learning process. Aiming to support Chemistry teachers, this work proposes a Potentially Meaningful Teaching Unit (PMTU) based on the use of Avogadro® software for teaching molecular geometry in high school Chemistry classes. The proposed PMTU includes Activity 01, in which a discussion on covalent bonds, bond lengths, angles, and the arrangement of molecules in three-dimensional space takes place. In Activity 02, the geometries characterizing seven molecules (H2O, NH3, HCℓ, CH4, BF3, PCℓ5 and SF6) will be investigated. Guiding questions are included in the activity proposals to help the teacher identify students' prior knowledge and assist them in expanding their acquired knowledge. At the end of the PMTU, questions are proposed to assess meaningful learning. The material also includes a tutorial for using Avogadro® software and a data collection spreadsheet for simulations. The PMTU proposal is expected to assist teachers in developing and conducting classes on molecular geometry, promoting meaningful learning for students.