Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Valerie Barber
4/2/2018
A. Informational Components
Grade Level: 6
6.2.1
Develop models to show that molecules are made of different kinds, proportions and quantities of
atoms. Emphasize understanding that there are differences between atoms and molecules, and that
certain combinations of atoms form specific molecules. Examples of simple molecules could include
water (H2O), atmospheric oxygen (O2), and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Specific Lesson Objective: Students will develop models using scale, proportion and quantity to discover
how atoms bond together to form molecules.
Materials: Styrofoam balls (enough for 5/student), blue, red, green, black paint, paint brushes,
toothpicks
B. Instructional Procedures
Engage (10 minutes)– We will begin by talking about what students already know about atoms
and molecules. Then, we will watch a short video about how atoms bond to form molecules. After the
video, we will quickly summarize and emphasize that there are differences between atoms and
molecules. I will show the students a model of a very complex molecule that I have made with atoms
(Styrofoam balls).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOXxFaHbIXg
Teacher Role: Assess prior knowledge, provide information needed for Explore phase
Explore (30 minutes) - Students will choose from a list of molecules to research online with their
tablets. Specifically, they will discover what combinations of atoms form the molecules they chose.
Then, they will choose their “atoms” (Styrofoam balls), bond them together with toothpicks, and paint
the balls the appropriate color to distinguish them from the other atoms in the molecule.
Explain (10 minutes) – We will come together as a group and discuss what we learned. I will ask
what makes molecules different from each other? What is the difference between atoms and
molecules? How big or small can molecules be?
Teacher Role: Asks for evidence and clarification from students, enhances or clarifies student
explanations
Extend (10 minutes) – Students will write in their science journals “I noticed” and “I wonder”
statements about atoms and molecules.
Evaluate – I will assess students by evaluating their models and by listening to their discussions.
Teacher Role: Observe and assess students as they apply new concepts and skills
Adaptations for ELLs, SPED, and GT students (early finishers): Students who finish early will have the
opportunity to research the makeup of a complex molecule of their choice. They can sketch and label a
model of this molecule. For students with disabilities and ELLs, I will provide written and concise
directions with examples of the requirements of the assignment and give one to the whole class.
10 things I learned about atoms and molecules:
I was hesitant to create a lesson plan about atoms and molecules because I don’t remember
officially learning about them. I have seen them in intimidating textbooks which I thought I would never
need to read. Because they are so small, it is hard for me to conceptualize atoms and molecules. I know
that atoms are the building blocks to all matter, but it is hard to imagine this. I think this is a challenging
concept to teach. This is not a concept that students can easily experiment with and question; it is more
likely something they will have to learn about.
Even while I was researching content and writing this lesson plan, I thought about backing out and
choosing a different standard to write about. However, I feel like now I have a pretty good
understanding of atoms and molecules, and I feel that I could teach this lesson to 6th graders. It is a relief
to know that I have written a lesson plan for what I think is the most difficult standard in all of the core
curriculum!