Lesson details
The Particle Model of Matter
Alberta · Grades 5-7 · 42 minutes

What is everything made of? In this experience, students will be observing the particle model of matter and its role in describing different states of matter.
The lesson will range from observing the lattice of a salt cube to a particle chamber where the behavior of gases can be examined in different circumstances. Students will also be introduced to what is found in each of these particles, including subatomic particles and the opportunity to construct some atoms from protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Lesson facts
- Region
- Alberta
- Grades
- 5-7
- Duration
- 42 minutes
- Group size
- 15–40 students, depending on the licensee or franchisee
- Availability
- Bookable · Book this lesson
Curriculum connections
Learning objectives
- Describing Models of a Solid: Students will observe and recognize the particle model of matter and how it can be used to describe a solid.
- Observing Changes in Gas Particles: Students will be able to describe the effects of temperature and volume on the behavior of gas particles and the number of particle collisions.
- Construct Atomic Models: Students will accurately construct Bohr models of the first 10 elements on the periodic table.
Alberta curriculum outcomes
Curriculum outcomes for Alberta have not yet been added.
Grades
- Grade 5
- Grade 6
- Grade 7
Skills
- Cause and Effect
- Critical Thinking
- Curiosity and Wonder
- Measurement and Data
- Participation
- Pattern Recognition
- Physical Manipulation
- Prediction
- Real-World Connections
- Scientific Inquiry
- Spatial Design
- Systems Thinking
- Using Models
Activities
Particle Model of Matter - Solid
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Describing Models of a Solid | Students will observe and recognize the particle model of matter and how it can be used to describe a solid. |
Particle Model of Matter - Gas
Characteristics of Gas Particles
In the particle chamber, view the behavior of particles in a gas. As the in-experience teacher changes aspects of the gas, like its temperature and volume, students will identify the observable changes in the particles, including the number of collisions.
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Observing Changes in Gas Particles | Students will be able to describe the effects of temperature and volume on the behavior of gas particles and the number of particle collisions. |
Atom Builder
Take an opportunity to manipulate subatomic particles to construct an atom in a safe environment! Students will be introduced to the structure of an atom and how to construct neutral atoms in an easy-to-learn and quick-to-master virtual environment while getting automatic and immediate feedback.
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Construct Atomic Models | Students will accurately construct Bohr models of the first 10 elements on the periodic table. |