Atom Modeling: Structure, Valence, & Bonding
During the three investigations in this kit, students explore the structure of atoms and how this influences the properties of elements. Although atoms cannot be chemically split, there are smaller subatomic particles within each atom. Using an innovative model, students discover the basic arrangement of protons, neutrons, and electrons in atoms of a given element. They then use the model to provide insight into why each element has certain properties and the patterns inherent in the Periodic Table. Questions addressed include: What are the major subatomic particles and where within an atom are they found?, How can you use the Periodic Table to determine the number of subatomic particles in an atom?, What distinguishes atoms of one element from atoms of another element?, What patterns are found within the Periodic Table?, What is an isotope?, and How and why does an atom combine with other atoms to form molecules?
Details at a Glance
- 2-4 Days | 2-4 ~50 minute class periods
- 2 Activities
- Accommodates 1 class, with 8 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
Scientific Concepts
• Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus
• Electrons are found in an electron cloud surrounding the nucleus.
• The atomic number is equal to the number of protons (or electrons) in an atom
• The atomic mass equals the sum of the protons and neutrons
• Atoms of different elements are distinguished by the number of protons in the nucleus
• Isotopes of an element have different number of neutrons in the nucleus of their atom
• The number and arrangement of subatomic particles influence the patterns of the Periodic Table of Elements
• Valence electrons play a key role in bonding
Key Vocabulary: atomic mass, electron shell, neutron, atomic mass unit (amu), element, nucleus, atomic number, ion, Periodic Table of Elements, bond, isotope, proton, chemical property, mass number, subatomic particle, chemical reaction, molecule, valence, electron
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 24 Atom Model Boards
- 16 Periodic Tables cards
- 8 sets of "subatomic particles" (40 red, 40 blue, and 40 white spheres)
- 1 Teacher's Guide
- 32 Student Guides
- Not included and needed for instruction: Large Periodic Table.
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