Read the seminal paper by Lappert entitled Subvalent Group 4B metal alkyls and amides. Part I. The synthesis and physical properties of kinetically stable bis[bis(trimethysilyl)methyl]-germanium(II), -tin(II), and -lead(II) and come to class prepared to discuss it.
Read also the review article by Power entitled π-Bonding and the Lone Pair Effect in Multiple Bonds Involving Heavier Main Group Elements: Developments in the New Millennium and come to class prepared to discuss it.
Follow the impact of the Lappert and Power papers to the present day by reading one or more recent papers that cite them. Come prepared to discuss the recent Lappert-citing or Power-citing work as well.
Watch the video interview with Harry Kroto and read the accompanying feature article in Chemistry World.