Chemistry Professor how-to

How to Teach Reaction Mechanisms

Mechanisms make organic chemistry make sense.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Mechanisms make organic chemistry make sense. In short: start; draw; explain, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Start with electron movement.

  2. Draw arrows step by step.

  3. Explain why each step happens.

  4. Have students practice.

  5. Compare similar reactions.

  6. Quiz often.

Safety reminders for chemistry professors

  • Follow the chemical hygiene plan
  • Require PPE in labs
  • Manage hazardous waste
  • Train students before lab work

Tenure · Adjunct · Syllabus · Peer review · Office hours · Sabbatical: see the full chemistry professor glossary.

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