Chemistry Class -- Common Molecules -- Homeschool Science Chemistry
This is the eighth lesson in the homeschool science Chemistry Class I am putting together for elementary and middle school aged students! Click HERE to see all the other lessons too!
Today's lesson is all about experimenting with atoms and molecules, getting familiar with their shapes, and recognizing common molecules and their formulas.
Supplies:
* molecular model kit
* optional: internet connection
* molecular model kit
* optional: internet connection
Goals:
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to...
1- Give the chemical formula for water, carbon dioxide, sodium chloride, nitrogen gas, and oxygen gas.
2- Explain the difference in atoms and molecules.
2- Explain the difference in atoms and molecules.
Lesson:
Read: During the last three lessons, we have just looked at the two most common ways molecules (2 or more atoms bound together) are held together. Today we're going to look at some of the most common molecules around us, and practice building them!
The best way to do this is with a 3-D molecular model kit. These are fun because each atom is represented by one color and only allows other atoms to bind to it at angles represented by reality.
The best way to do this is just dig in and experiment! Keep a periodic table close by, and see what molecules you can build!
Make sure you include these five, very common molecules:
* water (H2O) (usually two white balls and one red ball)
* carbon dioxide (CO2) (usually one black ball and two red balls)
* sodium chloride (NaCl) (often one green ball and one grey ball)
* nitrogen gas (N2) (usually two blue balls)
* oxygen gas (O2) (usually two red balls)
Tomorrow we will play a game that reviews these molecules even more!
NOTE TO PARENTS: Using a molecular model kit is by far the best way to become familiar with these atoms. I love the 3-dimensional, hands-on aspect of building with a model set. You can even make your own with clay or playdough! However, if that is not an option, there are two online simulations that are very useful. One is Atom Touch from Field Lab Day and the other is Build a Molecule from the University of Colorado Boulder. You may be able to find others also. If you have any other favorites, let me know, and I can add them as resources too. :)
Review/Final Discussion:
1- What is the difference in an atom and a molecule?
2- What is the chemical formula for water? carbon dioxide? sodium chloride? oxygen? nitrogen?
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This is the eighth lesson in my Atoms & Molecules Chemistry Class for homeschoolers! Click HERE to get the rest!
And if you're looking for more homeschool unit studies, be sure to check out our growing collection here!
Happy Educating,
Carla & the kids who don't sit still!
And if you're looking for more homeschool unit studies, be sure to check out our growing collection here!
Happy Educating,
Carla & the kids who don't sit still!
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