Activity Overview
Being able to model atoms is an important skill for students to acquire at the beginning of a unit. The elements that make up a chemical, the bonds between the atoms, and the way the atoms are arranged can give us an insight into the properties of the substance. Using ball and stick models can also allow students to ‘see’ the chemicals and give them a better understanding of its composition.
In this activity, students will create a chart that models different types of substances. Students will need to understand the terms atoms and bonds in order to complete this activity. They should create three models each for elements, compounds, and mixtures.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create models of different substances using the ball-and-stick-model symbol from Science > Symbols.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create stick and ball models for nine different substances: 3 elements, 3 compounds, and 3 mixtures.
- Write the name of each element, compound and mixture under the cell where you have drawn the model.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 25 Points | Emerging 13 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Substance Type Examples | There are two correct examples each of elements, compounds, and mixtures. | There is at least one correct example each of an element, a compound, and a mixture. | Two or fewer of the six examples of elements, compounds, and mixtures are correct. |
| Particle Diagram | There is a particle diagram that correctly represents an element, a compound and a mixture. | There are at least two images that correctly represent the substance types. | Only one particle diagram correctly represents the substance types. |
| Description | Every substance type (element, compound or a mixture) has a clear description that contains good scientific vocabulary. | At least two of the three substance types (element, compound or a mixture) have a clear description. | At least one of the three substance types (element, compound or a mixture) has a clear description. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Being able to model atoms is an important skill for students to acquire at the beginning of a unit. The elements that make up a chemical, the bonds between the atoms, and the way the atoms are arranged can give us an insight into the properties of the substance. Using ball and stick models can also allow students to ‘see’ the chemicals and give them a better understanding of its composition.
In this activity, students will create a chart that models different types of substances. Students will need to understand the terms atoms and bonds in order to complete this activity. They should create three models each for elements, compounds, and mixtures.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create models of different substances using the ball-and-stick-model symbol from Science > Symbols.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create stick and ball models for nine different substances: 3 elements, 3 compounds, and 3 mixtures.
- Write the name of each element, compound and mixture under the cell where you have drawn the model.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 25 Points | Emerging 13 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Substance Type Examples | There are two correct examples each of elements, compounds, and mixtures. | There is at least one correct example each of an element, a compound, and a mixture. | Two or fewer of the six examples of elements, compounds, and mixtures are correct. |
| Particle Diagram | There is a particle diagram that correctly represents an element, a compound and a mixture. | There are at least two images that correctly represent the substance types. | Only one particle diagram correctly represents the substance types. |
| Description | Every substance type (element, compound or a mixture) has a clear description that contains good scientific vocabulary. | At least two of the three substance types (element, compound or a mixture) have a clear description. | At least one of the three substance types (element, compound or a mixture) has a clear description. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Make Models for Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures
How to Introduce Atomic Models with Everyday Objects for Deeper Student Engagement
Engage students by connecting abstract science concepts to real-world items. Using familiar objects helps students visualize atoms and molecules, making learning memorable and fun.
Gather simple classroom materials
Collect items like colored marshmallows, gumdrops, or small balls for atoms and toothpicks or pipe cleaners for bonds. These materials are affordable and easy for students to handle.
Demonstrate building a basic atom model
Show students how to use one colored object for the nucleus and others for electrons. Connect with bonds using toothpicks. This hands-on example helps students understand atomic structure.
Challenge students to model compounds and mixtures
Ask students to create simple compounds (like H2O or CO2) and then try making mixtures by combining different 'atoms' without connecting all of them. This helps them see the difference between mixtures and compounds.
Facilitate a class discussion on model limitations
Guide students to consider what the physical models do and do not show (e.g., scale, movement, or actual chemical properties). This reflection encourages critical thinking about scientific models.
Frequently Asked Questions about Make Models for Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures
What is the difference between elements, compounds, and mixtures in a ball-and-stick model?
Elements are represented by single types of atoms, compounds show atoms of different elements bonded together, and mixtures display two or more substances (elements or compounds) combined but not chemically bonded in the model.
How can I teach students to model atoms, elements, and compounds effectively?
Use ball-and-stick models so students can visualize how atoms connect to form elements and compounds. Encourage labeling and charting each model for clearer understanding of atomic structure and bonding.
What materials do I need for students to create ball-and-stick models of substances?
You'll need colored balls (for atoms), sticks (for bonds), and a chart or worksheet for labeling. Many online tools or physical kits are available for classroom use.
Why is modeling atoms important for middle and high school students?
Modeling atoms helps students grasp abstract concepts like bonding and composition, and builds a strong foundation for more advanced chemistry topics.
What are some examples of easy elements, compounds, and mixtures to model in class?
Simple examples include oxygen (O2) for elements, water (H2O) for compounds, and a mix of iron filings and sulfur for mixtures. Choose familiar substances for maximum student engagement.
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