Grade‐12 students' misconceptions relating to fundamental characteristics of atoms and molecules

TLDR

Understanding atoms and molecules is essential to chemistry learning, yet student misconceptions can hinder progress. This article identifies misconceptions related to the fundamental characteristics of atoms and molecules that Grade‑12 students hold. The study used semistructured interviews with 30 stratified random Grade‑12 students, grouping the resulting misconceptions into 11 categories. The study identified 52 misconceptions, with six concerning molecular characteristics and five concerning atomic characteristics, some of which mirror historical scientific developments.

Abstract

Abstract An understanding of the concepts of atom and molecule is fundamental to the learning of chemistry. Any misconceptions and alternative conceptions that students harbor about these concepts will impede further learning. This article identifies misconceptions related to the fundamental characteristics of atoms and molecules which Grade‐12 students hold. Data were obtained by administration of semistructured interviews to a stratified, random sample of 30 students of differing abilities and backgrounds in science. Fifty‐two misconceptions were observed and are reported. These are grouped into 11 categories. Six relate to the structure, composition, size, shape, weight, bonding, and energy of molecules; five relate to the structure, shape, size, weight, and animistic perceptions of atoms. Some of the misconceptions identified parallel the historical development of scientific concepts.