Atomic modeling activities for elementary school students

CHED 245

Kelly M. Raisch, kraisch@calpoly.edu, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, 1 Grand Ave, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, Seth D. Bush, bush@marshall.edu, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, 1 Grand Ave, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, and Grace A. Neff, gneff@calpoly.edu, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California Polytechnic State University, 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407.
Fundamental concepts in chemistry are very important to learn at an early age, as these concepts lay the foundation for further science education in secondary and post-secondary schools. Several activities centered on the modern model of the atom were developed and used as part of a professional development workshop for 5th grade teachers. These activities include hands-on models that illustrate the basic concepts of atomic and molecular structure. The major goals of this work include preparing teachers to understand basic concepts and then effectively use the provided activities in their classrooms, as well as to test these activities in local 5th grade classrooms. Through sufficient instruction, we also hope students will be able to distinguish between different elements as well as build and recognize some simple molecules.