There are a number of approaches one could use to teach students about the particles inside the atom. One could introduce the various particles and teach students in the traditional manner. However, the approach taken by Modeling Instruction encourages students to develop a particle model based on data that they have collected in the laboratory.  Much like the scientists did that came before us.<br/>In this presentation, teachers will first be introduced to how Modeling Instruction differs from a traditional approach.  Then a hands-on activity will be done to understand what lead to the discovery of the electron.  Finally, I will share how the Modeling Curriculum has students “step into the shoes of the scientists” that made further discoveries and share their findings with their colleagues (classmates).  This does not come until Unit 10 in the Modeling Curriculum, so I will also share about why and how this is placed here and not earlier in the course.  Handouts on my requirements for students’ research and presentation, as well as a grading rubric will also be shared.

Atomic particles: Helping students gather data to understand the particles inside the atom

251st National Meeting (2016)

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