Puzzle to Build Organic Molecules with Sticky Notes

Abstract

A puzzle has been created that introduces bonding configurations and the structures of some common classes of organic compounds. Template pages with blank spaces that correspond to organic molecules are taped to the various walls of the classroom by the instructor. Students are each given a sticky note with an atom and bonds written on it which they must attach to the template pages in the correct configurations with their classmates. This seemingly simple task is actually very complex because (1) there are seven template molecules provided and students are not told what those molecules are, (2) students are not told which molecule their atom belongs to, (3) the puzzle pieces are square and thus offer no clues, and (4) there is only one correct solution for all of the pieces in the classroom. While students are focusing on the assigned task of building a molecule, they are simultaneously learning valid combinations of atoms and discussing them with their classmates. It is a fun way to either introduce or review Lewis dot diagrams or classes of organic compounds.

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