This module is situated towards the end of the second semester and serves as an application of covalent bonding. The goal is for students to leave this module with a better foundational knowledge of the properties of covalent bonds and how those bonds are important to their lives.
Prior to beginning this module, students should have been introduced to ionic and covalent bonding in unit 2 and then explored it more in unit 5 along with intermolecular forces. At this point the topic should be familiar, so the module should give another opportunity for students to grapple with the information and solidify views and understanding on the subject matter. Additionally, Unit 6 introduces the breakdown of bonds, so this module serves as a bridge into this subject.
Students will look at a variety of different texts, videos, and infographics, to come to a conclusion regarding BPA use in plastics. Included in this list is a primary research article. Special attention has been given to the supports required for students to understand this article. The reading level is collegiate, and it carefully exposes students to the type of reading they will do as college science majors if they choose that path.
After reading for content learning, students evaluate textual evidence and use it to develop a written argument about the level of regulation the US government should impose upon the use of BPA in plastics.
