Summary

In this project, students will research the properties and uses of an element as well as create a 3-dimensional physical Bohr model of the element. Then students will create a video recording of themselves sharing the details of their model as well as required research findings.

Grade Level

Middle School

NGSS Alignment

This project will help prepare your students to meet the performance expectations in the following standards:

• MS-PS1-1: Develop models to describe atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
• Scientific and Engineering Practices:
  • Developing and Using Models
  • Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Objectives

By the end of this project, students should be able to:

• Explain the Bohr Model of the atom.
• Articulate knowledge of the location and corresponding charges of each of the subatomic particles in an atom.
• Create a physical model of an atom, using materials of their choice.
• Describe the properties and uses of a given element.

Chemistry Topics

This project supports students’ understanding of:

• Atomic Structure
• Bohr Model
• Subatomic Particles
• Model of the Atom
• Physical Properties
• Chemical Properties

Time

Teacher Preparation: minimal
Lesson: 1 week assigned as suggested below (teachers should modify as needed):

• One class period to explain project requirements, assign element and begin research
• Remainder of assignment completed as homework

Materials

• Choice of materials (may be provided by teacher or student) for physical model
  • Examples: beans, coins, craft supplies, glue
• Paper
• Internet access
• Device for recording presentation

Safety

• No specific safety precautions need to be observed for this project.

Teacher Notes

• Although the Bohr model is not the accepted model of the atom, it is important learning tool in the understanding of the atom and subatomic particles.
• It is suggested that one class period be used for students to learn about the project requirements and begin planning. However, teachers should modify this as needed for their own students. It is important that students are given ample time to research, gather materials, create model, write their script, and record themselves.
• It is suggested that teachers provide time in class for questions to support student work.
• Limit students to choosing elements between atomic numbers 3 and 20. You may want to randomly assign atomic numbers in order to avoid many students choosing the same atom. Ions can be included as choices as well.
• Teachers may want to consider allowing students to work in pairs for this project.
• Students will create a video recording as part of this project. Although there are many ways that students can produce this short video, Flipgrid is a great choice. It is a free resource, all student videos can be organized by section, and as the teacher, you can choose to make the videos public or private. Note that by making the videos public would allow for a peer-review option, in which students can review feedback on a draft of their recording and then revise and upload a final video for the teacher.
• Flipgrid also provides a customizable rubric the teacher can use for assessing student work. Here is an example: