First Introduction to Molecular Models
Understanding molecular model made easy with this specially designed two-part kit. Students first study electron characteristics using the Bohr model for electron structure of the atom. They progress to a study of atoms gaining, losing, or sharing electrons in order to form molecules of a substance. Four-page student worksheets introduce students to molecular models by first using 2-dimensional color-coded atoms. Lewis diagramming can be taught with these models (directions included in instruction Manual). The next activity deals with the 3-dimensional structure of the atom. Similarities in molecules are readily observed as students connect atoms to similar atoms, such as forming hydrocarbons. Bonding is illustrated in constructing molecules with different atoms. Understanding the differences in empirical and structural formulas is emphasized. Students then progress to 3-dimensional, color-coded plastic atoms, building more realistic molecular models. The 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional atoms are colorful, easy-to-assemble and help students visualize the structure of the molecular formula that it represents. An excellent activity for all grade levels, it can be used for review as well as an introduction to atom-molecule concepts.
Details at a Glance
- 2 Days | 2 ~50 minute class periods
- 2 Activities
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 12 groups of 2 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
Scientific Concepts
• Understand electron characteristics and then atoms
• Introduction to 2 and 3 dimensional molecular models
• Understand Lewis diagramming
• Construct molecular structures
• Write empirical and structural formula
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.
- Comprehensive Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis items
- Materials necessary for the investigation (beyond common classroom items)
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 12 sets of color-coded 3-dimensional plastic atoms containing;
- 20 Covalent plastic bonds (white tubes)
- 18 Hydrogen single electron atoms (white)
- 4 Carbon tetrahedral centers (black)
- 1 Nitrogen tetrahedral center (red)
- 1 Chlorine single electron atom (green)
- 1 Fluorine single electron atom (pale green)
- 1 Oxygen double electron bond (blue)
- 12 sets of printed color-coded 2-dimensional die-cut atoms containing;
- 8 Hydrogen atoms (white)
- 4 Chlorine atoms (green)
- 2 Carbon atoms (black)
- 1 Nitrogen atom (red)
- 1 Oxygen atom (blue)
- 1 Sodium atom (grey)
- 1 Sulfur atom (yellow)
- 1 Fluorine atom (pale green)
- 1 Aluminum atom (pink)
- 36 Student Worksheets and Guides, Parts I and II
- 1 Teacher’s Guide