Why do chili peppers taste hot? Why is there iron in the cereal we eat? Why are some of us lactose intolerant, whereas others are not? What causes heartburn? Why is it harmful to drink too much water? Why does hydrogen peroxide bubble when you put it on a cut? Why do tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer? Why do antibiotics not work for some infections? The answers to all these questions are based on the principles of chemistry. "Molecules of Life" is a non-majors course that teaches chemistry in the context of biological molecules and pharmaceuticals. The course engages students' interest through a focus on their own health, using real-world examples to motivate a deeper exploration of chemical principles.We also encourage students to examine broader societal issues, such as whether to allow "compassionate access" to experimental drugs. We have gained important insights into student learning through more than 500 responses to the online SALG survey (Student Assessment of their Learning Gains). This presentation discusses the design and content of the "Molecules of "Life course, together with its impact on students' knowledge and attitudes about science.

Molecules of life: Teaching chemistry in the context of biological molecules and pharmaceuticals

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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