Welcome to Week 2 of Year 7 Chemistry! This week, we’ll dive into the tiny building blocks that make up everything in the universe: atoms and molecules. You’ll learn what they are, how they combine, and even create your own models at home.
Hour 1: What Are Atoms and Molecules?
Learning Objectives
By the end of this hour, you will:
Understand the basic structure of an atom (protons, neutrons, and electrons).
Learn how atoms bond together to form molecules.
Read and Watch
Read: What are Atoms? and What's Inside and Atom? in "What's Chemistry all About?"
Read Chapter 2: "When Elements Get Together" from "How to Make a Universe with 92 Ingredients". Focus on how these tiny particles combine to form everything around us.
Watch: Atoms Explained in Simple Terms (MooMoo Maths and Science) for a simple explanation of atomic structure.
Watch: Difference Between an Atom, Molecule and Compound (MooMoo Maths and Science)
Watch: What are the Different Atomic Models? (Science ABC)
Interactive Activity: Explore the Build an Atom Simulation (PhET) to practice identifying protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Task: Draw and Label an Atom
Draw a simple atom, such as hydrogen or helium.
Label the parts: nucleus, protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Add one fun fact about atoms to your drawing.
Complete the worksheet.
Hour 2: Molecules and How They Form
Learning Objectives
By the end of this hour, you will:
Understand how atoms join together to form molecules through chemical bonds.
Differentiate between elements, compounds, and mixtures.
Read and Watch
Read: pages 10-13 in "What's Chemistry all About?"
Read: A short article on BBC Bitesize, Atoms and Molecules.
Watch: What is a Molecule? (Ted-Ed) to see how molecules are formed.
Print out the poster.
Practical Activity: Build Molecular Models
What You Need:
Marshmallows (to represent atoms)
Toothpicks (to represent bonds)
Steps:
Use the marshmallows to represent atoms of different elements. For example, small marshmallows for hydrogen and larger ones for oxygen.
Connect the marshmallows with toothpicks to build simple molecules like water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Take a photo of your models and label them.
Hour 3: Exploring John Dalton’s Atomic Theory
Learning Objectives
By the end of this hour, you will:
Learn about John Dalton’s contributions to atomic theory.
Reflect on how his ideas have shaped modern chemistry.
Read and Watch
Read: A short biography of John Dalton in Scientists and their Discoveries.
Watch: The 2400-Year Search for the Atom (Ted-Ed)
Watch: John Dalton (Biography) for a quick overview of his work.
Task: Dalton’s Theory Reflection
Write a short paragraph summarising Dalton’s key ideas about atoms.
Reflect: How do you think his work changed the way people understood the world?
Quick Activity: Atomic Theory Timeline
Using the infographic, create a mini timeline showing key milestones in the development of atomic theory, starting with Dalton. Use the internet to add photos or depictions of each scientist, draw diagrams of each theory and add any interesting facts.
Summary and Reflection
Reflect on the Week:
What did you find most interesting about atoms and molecules?
How do you think Dalton’s ideas still influence modern science?
Can you think of any objects or materials around you that are made up of molecules?
Looking Ahead: Next week, we’ll take a closer look at the periodic table and learn how scientists organize all the elements. Get ready to discover some surprising patterns and trends!
That's Week 2 completed!
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