Atoms & Molecules

Performance Expectation

MS-PS1-1: Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.

In Student-Friendly Words...

I can use models to explain how atoms join together to form molecules and other substances.

Big Ideas

All matter is made of atoms.
Different types of atoms combine in different ways.
Atoms form molecules and larger structures.
Models help us understand things that are too small to see.

Interactive Learning

Structure of an Atom

Build an Atom PhET

Build a Molecule PhET

Making Molecular Models

Watch & Learn

How Small Is An Atom? Spoiler: Very Small.

Difference between an Atom, a Molecule and a Compound

How to find the Protons Neutrons and Electrons of an element on the Periodic table

Types of Matter: Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures

Atoms | Bill Nye The Science Guy

Meets Molly Cule | The Magic School Bus

Ear Worms

THE ATOMS SONG | Science Music Video

The Periodic Table Song

Real-World Connections

Medicine

When you take medicine, the molecules in that medicine interact with your body in specific ways. Understanding atoms and molecules helps scientists create medicines that work.

Food

The food you eat is made of molecules, and the way those molecules are arranged affects how food tastes, smells, and behaves when you cook it.

Cleaning Products

Soap, shampoo, and cleaning products work because their molecules interact with water, dirt, and oils in specific ways.

Everyday Materials

The materials in your phone, clothing, furniture, and buildings all have different properties because of the atoms and molecules they contain.

Take It Further

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