Lessons
Atoms & Molecules: The Particle Model of Matter
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.
Grade 5 - Matter: How can states of matter and other physical properties be explained using the particle model of matter?
Grade 6 - Matter: How can the particles of matter be influenced by heating or cooling?
Grade 7 - Unit C: Heat and Temperature
Curricular Connections
Grade 5 - Matter: How can states of matter and other physical properties be explained using the particle model of matter?
Grade 6 - Matter: How can the particles of matter be influenced by heating or cooling?
Grade 7 - Unit C: Heat and Temperature
Skills
Scientific Inquiry
Observation
Pattern Recognition
Collaboration
Participation
Physical Manipulation
Activities
Particle Model of Matter - Solid
Examine the structure of a salt cube as an example of a solid using the particle model of matter. In this teacher-led tour, students will identify the characteristics of the particles in a solid by seeing them in place and grasping them to observe the specific particle structure. Students will also be introduced to the concept of ionic compounds.
| 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
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. Students will also be introduced to the different models of an atom beyond just the basic particles.
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Describing Models of a Gas | Students will observe and recognize the particle model of matter and how it can be used to describe a 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. |