![]() ![]() ( PDF)įollow this link for a GCSE activity where students have to decide if a model shows an atom or an ion. They see for themselves how group number equals valence electron number. ![]() Students draw on the electronic configuration for the first 20 elements. GCSE worksheet on electronic configuration and the Periodic table. This fantastic model helps students appreciate the scale of a hydrogen atom Whenever teaching atomic structure, it is vital students gain an understanding of scale and just how empty atoms are. Students come up with a list of questions that their partner must answer by using the key words written on the slide. This activity promotes good discussion between students and supports meaning making of key terms. Key words used to describe atomic structure are written on the board. GCSE worksheet on atomic structure key words. The activity should lead to an understanding of what the atomic number and mass number mean. Students work in pairs to deduce as many things as they can about atomic structure from diagrams showing three different atoms and one ion. GCSE activity on atomic number and mass number. Resources to help students understand particles are found elsewhere Mass number and atomic number – what do they mean? Electrons can be represented by something with a tiny mass – such as a hair plucked form your head! Particle theory (solids, liquids and gases) teaching resources Neutrons and protons should be represented by similar sized objects, with the same mass. A fun thing to do is then ‘build an atom together’ using a range of artefacts to represent the different parts. Then pose the question, ‘can this piece of paper be broken down further’? Explore ideas on the board and then introduce the idea of atoms, building on what students already know about particles. For a detailed explanation of alternative conceptions about atomic structure see this excellent publication from the RSC on chemical misconceptions.Ĭhallenge students to tear a piece of paper into the smallest size possible. Misconception : the electrons in an atom orbit the nucleus like planets in our solar system orbit the sun the nucleus of an atom is equivalent to a nucleus in a cell. Linked knowledge: periodic table, particles, bonding Atoms can differ from each other in the number of protons, neutrons and electrons they contain.įrom big idea: all matter in the Universe is made from very small particles Key concept: matter is made from discrete units called atoms. It’s worth spending time explaining how atoms are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction between electrons and the nucleus (both directions) and by nuclear forces of attraction between nucleons. As well as understanding that atoms are made from different subatomic particles, students also need to understand that these subatomic particles differ in their size, location and charge. The image here could represent a progression in how students understand atomic theory, starting with a simple billiard ball model at Key Stage 2/3 and ending with the electron cloud model at A Level. ![]() A useful way to approach the teaching of atomic structure is to consider the changing models proposed by scientists throughout history. Overview: never trust an atom, they make up everything! Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter and are built from protons, neutrons and electrons. Reflections of a science teacher – ten years on.Building a curriculum towards big ideas.Floating and sinking teaching resources.Bonding, structure and properties teaching resources.Balancing and writing chemical equations.The science teacher science thinking resources and pedagogy ![]()
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