The Development of Mental Model in Molecular Geometry and Polarity for Secondary 4 Students using Model-Based Learning with Graphic Organization

Abstract

This research aims to develop student’s mental models in molecular geometry and polarity for secondary 4 students using Model-Based Learning with Graphic organization. The target group of 71 students was selected. This study is qualitative research utilizing Model-Based Learning with Graphic organization designed lesson plans and the two-tier diagnostic test. The data was analyzed by percentages. The results of the study show that students held completeness and incompleteness mental models. The incomplete one is raising from the incoherence mental model including; wrong central atoms identification (28.26%), uncorrected bond polar vector addition (46.38%) and unintentional of bond polarity magnitude (5.79%). The finding could suggest that teacher need to mark the setting of Lewis structure clearly and should advance student’s spatial ability and emphasis the distinctive strength of bond polarity.