Making an easy atom model project is really a terrific way to help kids understand the makeup of atoms.
LEGO bricks are a versatile and engaging teaching tool that can be used to teach a wide range of subjects and skills.
For example, they teach science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) in a fun way.
LEGO is great for hands-on learning because it allows students to learn by doing.
Kids build creativity and imagination.
When working in a group LEGO learning builds collaboration, team work, and problem solving.
Finally, they can be used for learning how STEM concepts work in the real world.
If you want a different easy atom model project I have 5 more great ideas for you.
From edible to oversized models, these activities are sure to hold kids’ attention and help them retain what they are learning.
EASY ATOM MODEL PROJECT FACTS
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter.
They are so small that you can’t even see them with a microscope!
Atoms are made up of even smaller particles called protons, neutrons, and electrons.
- Protons have a positive electric charge.
- Neutrons have no electric charge.
- Electrons have a negative electric charge.
Protons and neutrons are found in the center of the atom, called the nucleus.
Electrons orbit the nucleus in paths called electron shells.
The number of protons in an atom determines what element it is.
For example, all atoms with one proton are hydrogen atoms.
All atoms with six protons are carbon atoms, and so on.
Atoms can combine with each other to form molecules. Molecules are the building blocks of all things around us, from water to air to the food we eat.
Atoms are constantly moving and vibrating. When atoms move faster, they have more energy. When atoms move slower, they have less energy.
The study of atoms is called atomic physics. Atomic physicists have learned a lot about atoms over the years, but there is still much that we don’t know.
Since atoms are the basic building block doesn’t it just seem fitting that we use our favorite building blocks to recreate our own model as well?
5 EASY ATOM MODEL PROJECT IDEAS
- You can make your atom and eat it too with an Atomic Cookie Skillet Model that introduces another science activity, cooking, into the mix.
- Another edible model that is tasty, the Marshmallow Atom Project, keeps it really simple while teaching the basics.
- Label The Atom Playdough Activity turns another favorite ‘toy’ into a learning lesson.
- Go big with this How to Make a 3D Model of an Atom, perfect for co-op or a family science project.
- If you have a budding artist at home they may enjoy learning about the parts of an atom by learning How to Draw an Atom in 6 Easy Steps.
Finally, look at how to create a fun LEGO atom version.
HOW TO CREATE A FUN LEGO ATOM VERSION
Remember how I mentioned this was easy? It really is as simple as letting your child play with LEGO. I typed up and added in a quick key for each of the parts to help them remember and that was it!
You will need:
- LEGO baseplate
- Lots of 1x? Any length bricks
- 2-6 studs (1×1) in 3 different colors
- Typed or handwritten list of atom parts
- 18-2×2 bricks
- 2-3×6 plates
First, start with a reference picture of an atom online or in a favorite science book.
You can choose any color you like for each part, just be sure that you have a lot of the 1x_ pieces in a variety of lengths to create the electron paths.
Then you will need to designate a color for electrons, protons, and neutrons in single studs.
Start by creating electron paths by making an outer “circle” and an inner “circle” with 1x_ pieces, you can achieve more of a circular shape by alternating placement at corners and randomly around the circle.
Occasionally use your designated color for electrons and replace a stud to represent the electrons moving along the path.
Add in your desired number of protons and neutrons to the center.
Flip two 3×7 plates upside down and make 3 stacks made up of 6 2×2 bricks across one end of them.
Turn over your atom model plate and attach these to one end of the board.
This will create a fun angled display for your model.
Have your child type or write up each of the parts of an atom and then use this as a key, putting the corresponding LEGO colors next to each one.
Remove the LEGO colors from the key and see if they can recall which is which, including the names of each.
