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Notes for teachers

Notes

- This lesson can be done in 1-2 hours.

- Students can make small groups of 2-3 members.

- The focus of this lesson is to explore different molecular geometries using PhET simulation

- Collaboration should be encouraged.

List of Materials

Computers or tablets with internet access
PhET simulation: “Molecule Shapes” https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/molecule-shapes

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AZ Educational Technology Standards

- Students communicate clearly and express themselves creatively for a variety of purposes using the platforms, tools, styles, formats and digital media appropriate to their goals.

HS.P1U1.2.

Develop and use models for the transfer or sharing of electrons to predict the formation of ions, molecules, and compounds in both natural and synthetic processes.

HS+C.P1U1.4.

Develop and use models to predict and explain forces within and between molecules.

AZ Physical Science Standards

9-12.6.c. Students communicate complex ideas clearly using various digital tools to convey the concepts textually, visually, graphically, etc.

AZ Mathematics Standards

G.G-SRT.C.8

Use trigonometric ratios (including inverse trigonometric ratios) and the Pythagorean Theorem to find unknown measurements in right triangles utilizing real-world context.

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Objective(s):

Today we will apply the concept of molecular geometry and its relationship to molecular properties using PhET simulation.

Today we will analyze the impact of molecular geometry on properties such as polarity and bond angles.

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Agenda ( minutes)

1. Introduction to molecular geometry

2. PhET simulation exploration

3. Application Activity

4. Assessment

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Intro/Driving Question/Opening

Review key terms such as bond angle, electron pair geometry, and molecular shape.

2. "Why is understanding the spatial arrangement of atoms within molecules crucial for predicting and explaining the diverse range of physical and chemical behaviors exhibited by different substances?“

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Hands-on Activity Instructions

Analysis and Discussion (15 minutes):

Lead a class discussion on the observations and findings from the simulation.
Encourage students to compare and contrast the molecular geometries of different molecules and identify trends in bond angles and molecular shapes.

Application Activity: Molecular Properties (10 minutes):

Challenge students to predict the polarity of various molecules and their molecular geometry and electron distribution.
Discuss how molecular geometry influences properties such as polarity, solubility, and reactivity.

Teachers can use the worksheet attached below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1igIvWqit74397CE9ZWEkD9g6UZeXJlX5nGHFRH2PJ68/edit?usp=sharing

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PhET Simulation Exploration (30 minutes):

Divide students into pairs or small groups and provide access to computers or tablets with the PhET "Molecule Shapes" simulation.
Instruct students to explore the simulation and investigate the molecular geometries of different molecules by adjusting the number of atoms and lone pairs.

Guided Exploration (15 minutes):

Facilitate a guided exploration of specific molecular geometries, such as linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, and bent shapes.
Encourage students to observe how changing the number of atoms and lone pairs affects the molecular shape and bond angles.
Students will write their observations on the worksheet provided.

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Assessment

Evaluate students' understanding of molecular geometry and its impact on molecular properties through a written reflection where they describe their observations from the simulation, analyze the relationship between molecular geometry and properties, and apply their knowledge to predict the properties of specific molecules.

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Differentiation

Students who did not get the lesson right away can be provided an alternate activity.

Students will be provided with molecular model kits (or marshmallows and toothpicks) to each pair. They will build models of the molecules they explored in the PhET simulation and physically manipulate the models to better understand the 3D structure and bond angles. Students to compare their models with the diagrams and notes from the simulation to reinforce the connection between the virtual and physical representations.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Advanced students can explore more complex molecular geometries beyond those covered in this lesson by integrating mathematical concepts such as calculating bond angles and molecular geometries based on Lewis structures and VSEPR theory.

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