What is an atom? What are atoms made of?
Atoms are the basic building blocks of ordinary matter.
There are many different types of atoms, each with its own name. These different atoms combine as chemical elements.
Can you think of some element names?
Atoms are made up of three kinds of smaller particles, called protons (which are positively charged), neutrons (which have no charge) and electrons (which are negatively charged). The protons and neutrons stay in the nucleus. They are surrounded by electrons which are attracted to the nucleus by the electromagnetic force.
The number of protons and electrons an atom has tells us what element it is. Hydrogen, for example, has 1 proton and 1 electron; the element Carbon has 6 protons and 6 electrons.
Using the Element Constructor your challenge is to create different elements.
Whenever you discover an Atom make sure you record the number of Protons, Electrons and Neutrons on your sheet.
How many different atoms can you find?
iPad view for students
Mini Plenary - (Can happen once students get to Aluminium)
Students can share their discoveries.
How many elements did you discover?
How many protons does Lithium have?
What does the number mean?
What patterns can you see?
Can you predict the makeup of a new atom?
How could we test this?
Continue Experimenting
Once you have a selection of element blocks, think about how you can arrange them. Discuss ways to sort and arrange your elements, use the space to build your system and share this with the class.
Learning Intention
Can I investigate?
Success Criteria
I can move my character
I can manipulate tools
I can make atoms, testing new combinations
I can record my findings
I can look for patterns
I can predict
I can test
| Resources |
|---|
| Y2.1 - Making Elements World file |
| Y 2.1 - Making Elements - Plan |
| Student Findings Sheet |
| Full list of Available Elements |
| The History of the Atom |
| Dynamic Periodic Table |