Chemistry 242 Research Project

							                            Chemistry 242 Research Project

Choose an organic molecule in which you have an interest. Prepare a report on that
molecule. The molecule can be a natural product or synthetically made. It can be of
relevance to medicine, physiology, industry, and/or the environment. You will have to
use several different sources in print, not just articles on the web. The library can help
you with access to journals such as “Science,” which count as “in print” even if you read
them on the computer. The reason for printed references is so you have sources that are
peer reviewed. Any idiot can write anything they want and post it to the net.

More about the written parts of the assignment:
1. Research paper - 2 pages including bibliography - information to be included:
  a. Physical properties of the compound, bp, mp, spectral data, etc. (put into table for
     easy reference for the reader)
  b. Source of the compound.
     1. if extracted, how?
     2. if synthesized, how?
  c. Why is the compound in the news?
  d. Discuss the risks/benefits of this compound.
  e. Bibliography

2. Abstract - 1 to 1/2 page summary of your research project.
  a. Please submit an abstract electronically as a word attachment or directly pasted in
an email.

3. Poster that includes:
  a. Title of Project, your name, date
  b. A copy of your abstract
  c. Outline of your 5 min presentation
  d. Other interesting pictures or information if available

The non-written part of the assignment

1. A three-dimensional model, use your model kit or be creative.

2. A 5 minute presentation to the class on June 3, 2008 (at lab). Presentations will be in
reverse order of your telling me what molecule you want to do by email (so I have date
stamps).

Due Dates

Choosing a molecule                                   4/30
Initial Bibliography, including at sources in print   5/14
Abstract                                              5/28
Presentation, report, abstract, model, poster         6/2
Your presentation will be evaluated as follows:
research paper - 15 %
abstract - 10 %
poster - 25 %
molecular model - 5 %
advance bibliography in on time 5 %
presentation - 30 %

Your presentation will also be peer reviewed. See the below for evaluation forms. (this is
just a sample. I will bring them).

                                      Chem 242
                               Project Evaluation Sheet

          Poster/Presentation Title: _________________________________

Author: ______________________________


                                   1 very     2 below         3       4    5
                                   poor       average         average good excellent
1.
Organization
(Good Use of Time)
2. Ease of Understanding


3. Interest Level


4. Model: Chemical
    Accuracy

5. Creativity:
(Use of Poster
    and/or Overheads)
6. Relevance/
Science Content


 Reviewer's Name __________________________________