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Atoms
Atoms are the basic unit of a chemical element. An atom a fundamental piece of matter. (Matter is anything that can be touched physically.) Everything in the universe (except energy) is made of matter, and, so, everything in the universe is made of atoms.
Material
Day 1 – Introduction
- Instructor Introduction Topic 14 specific (pdf)
- Instructor Introduction Topic 14 specific (ppt)
- Student Work Packet – Topic 14
Day 2 – Virtual Textbook
- Read Physical 14 – 6th Grade Definitions
- Read Physical 14 – Atom
- Read Physical 14 – Atomic Structure
Enrichment
- Lab 16 – Atom Model
- Write a letter – Atoms
Videos
5:27 Just How Small is an Atom?
8:43 What Does An Atom REALLY Look Like?
0:48 First Picture of the Hydrogen Atom
Debate
Atoms are obviously very small. Atoms are a bit difficult to understand. Prior to the year 2000, atoms were often represented with simple illustrations showing electrons circling around protons and neutrons.
Today though, we know about the “electron cloud” – and the simple illustrations are not entirely accurate. Some people think the simple illustrations are still a great way to teach young people about atoms. Others think that even though the general concepts can be taught with the simpler illustrations, it is better to use a more accurate description even if it is complicated and difficult to draw.
- Position A: The “old-school” illustrations of atoms remain a great way to teach about atoms.
- Position B: Accuracy is more important than simplicity in teaching about atoms. The “old-school” illustrations should be abandoned.
Instructor Resources
Standard Daily Material
- Day 1 – Standard material – introduction day
- Day 2 – Standard material – reading day
- Day 3 – Standard material – make a presentation
- Day 4 – Standard material – give a presentation
- Extra! – Enrichment and remediation options
Other Topic Specific Resources
Special Notes
Instructor Emphasis:
- Science & Engineering Practice: Develop and use models.
- Cross-Cutting Concept: Structure and Function.