This reading introduces the students to the scientific puzzle that existed in the early 1900s about to the molecular structures of polymeric materials, and discusses the debate between colloid theory and macromolecular theory. Presenting the students with this puzzle reinforces the idea that science concerns the investigation of unanswered questions. This is meant to set the stage for further exploration of the inquisitive nature of science in the reading Testing the Theory.

This reading can be used to connect the subject of polymers to the students' everyday experience. This connection may be reinforced by using the activity Fiber Fun! in conjuction with this reading. The reading also reinforces basic chemistry concepts, such as the joining of atoms in specific arrangements to form molecules and the relationship between microscopic molecular structure and macroscopic material properties.

Relevant National Science Education Standards

Unifying Concepts and Processes — The reading deals with early attempts to model and explain the behavior of polymeric materials based on what limited evidence was available at the time.

Science as Inquiry — The reading focuses on early inquiries into the nature of polymeric materials.

Physical Science — The reading introduces the question of the molecular structure of polymeric materials.

Science and Technology — The historical reality that people knew how to use natural and synthetic polymers without understanding them can highlight the difference between science and technology. However, that scientific understanding of polymers could lead to an increased ability to use polymers underscores the dependence of technology on science.

History and Nature of Science — This historical account demonstrates science as a human endeavor and the dependence of scientific knowledge on observed evidence. For example, the controversy between scientists reveals the human side of science while the quest for a good explanation of polymers centered on the struggle to understand the evidence that had been observed.