Transitioning from General Chemistry into Organic Chemistry: Bridging the Gap Using Saponification Reaction in an Inquiry-Based Laboratory Approach

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 25 (2020) pp 134-138

Transitioning from General Chemistry into Organic Chemistry: Bridging the Gap Using Saponification Reaction in an Inquiry-Based Laboratory Approach

Laura Stachow, Jared VanderZwaag, Kristen Limacher, Liza Abraham*

Department of Biology, Ambrose University, 150 Ambrose Circle SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T3H 0L5, labraham@ambrose.edu
Received March 6, 2020. Accepted May 14, 2020.

Published: 10 June 2020

Abstract. A laboratory experiment was developed and implemented for second year undergraduate students as their first organic chemistry (OCHEM) laboratory experiment to facilitate a smoother transition from general chemistry (GCHEM) to OCHEM. The objective of the experiment was for students to execute a saponification reaction using coconut oil and understand the chemical principles behind that reaction. After performing the experiment, students formed into groups to discuss and answer inquiry-based questions provided by a supporting worksheet. Discussion groups were used to facilitate active participation and collaborative learning with the aim of building a connection between GCHEM and OCHEM concepts through the application of these principles in this laboratory experiment. Rather than employing the traditional, cook-book approach to laboratory experiments, this project allows students to critically review fundamental concepts through peer-led discussions, laying a strong foundation for the course materials, and strengthening understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts. Students have the opportunity to apply basic OCHEM concepts such as: structural representations, electronegativity, polarity, solubility, orbital overlap, sigma and pi bonding, functional groups as site of reactivity, electrophile and nucleophile, reaction mechanisms, resonance, and nucleophilic acyl substitution reaction as a means to explain the saponification reaction. The conversion of oils into soap is an ideal exercise to implement active learning through student engagement. By employing a simple saponification reaction and problem-solving discussions, students are better positioned to begin their studies in OCHEM.

Key Words: Laboratories and Demonstrations; general chemistry; organic chemistry; collaborative learning; inquiry-based approach; pedagogy; active learning

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: labraham@ambrose.edu)

Article in PDF format (213 KB) HTML format

Supporting Materials:

Files available include: Student Pre-lab, Handout and Worksheet, Student Survey and Comments, (1750 KB)