Molecules workshop: “building matter”

Through the building of models of molecules, this activity develops students’ abstraction capacity, spatial vision, and knowledge of the formation of molecules from elements. Once molecules have been studied and drawn in class, students undertake this workshop that aims to foster their creative and critical thought. The aim is to imagine and build molecular structures of compounds in 3D. Students work with toothpicks and modelling clay, although balloons, cork balls and other materials may also be used. This activity provides insight into chemical reactions because the molecules (reagents) can be broken down and re-combined to form new molecules (products).

• Subject content: Identify molecules of compounds used in everyday life

• Understand how atoms bond to form more complex structures 

• Simple molecular geometries (trigonal, angular, tetrahedral)

This unit has a creativity and critical thinking focus:

• Produce a meaningful model that is personally novel

• Appraise models of molecules and reflect on steps taken 

Web and Print

• Images of molecules

• https://descubrirlaquimica.wordpress.com (Spanish language site)

• http://www.cienciaonline.com 

Other

• Modelling clay (e.g. plasticine), toothpicks, newspaper, straws (optional), paper or cardboard, and additional materials (to be chosen by the team).

English Version

• https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bEMjp7N8YqdYR9xsjZcyU-Vqj38aivf99LZ6WP1Qp5A/edit?usp=sharing   

Hindi Version

• https://docs.google.com/document/d/1usBTCWFtJMfYzOqhAk1P6X-J9h9CqkZQ3VtbLs7TcxU/edit?usp=sharing 

Gujarati Version

• https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AgKEks8p3j_4YM96nNWUwEJmWsOs9mJnf8AXA5dCJ_w/edit?usp=sharing

Kannada Version

• https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uDvjLasnqrpwLT-orMjJzyP3850xyknajENYQFMraKQ/edit?usp=drive_link