Making Chemistry Matter: Sixth Graders Create 3-D Molecules

In Mrs. Beeny Finkelstein’s 6th grade science classes, the focus is on chemistry. Prior to Winter Break, students were given the challenge to create a 3-D model of an atom from an element on the periodic table. Each model had to have the correct number of protons, neutrons and electrons and include a key and an information card with facts about the atom including atomic number and atomic mass. Extra points were given for creativity and complexity of design and for information about the element that would show how the element was unique or important to individuals or society in general.

Students were encouraged to think about a characteristic of the element and use that in their materials. One student used banana chips and carrot chips to represent protons and neutrons in the nucleus of the potassium element. He said that he painted the electrons light purple to represent the color that potassium metal turned in a lab activity we did with chemical compounds and flame. Other students used copper pennies for their atomic particles in the element copper. The krypton model actually lit up with LED bulbs and battery to represent krypton which is used in making light bulbs glow!

“The end results were stunning,” exclaims a very proud Mrs. Finkelstein. “Students measured, computed, built and researched the scientific facts and information in this very engaging STEM project.”