This unit on chemical bonding is one of 10 first year units produced by the Independent Learning Project for Advanced Chemistry (ILPAC). The unit, which consists of two levels, provides an introduction to the main types of chemical bonding and important aspects of structure. The main emphasis is placed on such topics as ionic and covalent bonding, shapes of molecules, electronegativity, and simple lattices; introductory treatments of such advanced topics as hybridization and delocalization are also included, together with experimental approaches to model-making and oxidation numbers. Two experiments, 79 exercises (with answers), and pre- and post-tests are provided. Students completing this ILPAC unit assume a greater responsibility for their own learning and can work, to some extent, at their own pace. By providing guidance, and detailed solutions to exercises in the units, supported by the optional use of video-cassettes, the project allows students to study A-level chemistry with less teacher contact time than a conventional course demands. (JN)