Atom Adventures: From Particles to Chernobyl

Plan

9th Grade Project 2 weeks

Atom Adventures: From Particles to Chernobyl

Katherine B

CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.6

CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-VM.C.8

CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.7

+ 5 more

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Purpose

This project aims to deepen students' understanding of atomic structures and their behaviors through hands-on simulations and creative expression. By engaging in activities like solid, liquid, and gas simulations, students will visualize atomic movement and explore concepts such as isotopes, atomic masses, and radioactivity. The culminating task, a collaborative comic strip, will allow students to creatively communicate their knowledge, while reflective art projects will provide an opportunity for personal growth and self-assessment. Through these experiences, students will develop critical thinking, effective communication, and content expertise in a supportive learning environment.

Learning goals

Students will explore the fundamental concepts of atomic structure, including the behavior of atoms in different states of matter and the process of radioactive decay. They will develop the ability to analyze and create Lewis dot structures, understand isotopes and atomic masses, and gain insights into radioactivity through the Chernobyl case study. By collaborating on a comic strip project, students will enhance their critical thinking, effective communication, and content expertise, while reflecting on their learning journey through a creative art project.

Standards

[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.6 - Use geometric descriptions of rigid motions to transform figures and to predict the effect of a given rigid motion on a given figure; given two figures, use the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions to decide if they are congruent.
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.6 - Use geometric descriptions of rigid motions to transform figures and to predict the effect of a given rigid motion on a given figure; given two figures, use the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions to decide if they are congruent.
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-VM.C.8 - (+) Add, subtract, and multiply matrices of appropriate dimensions.
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.7 - Use the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions to show that two triangles are congruent if and only if corresponding pairs of sides and corresponding pairs of angles are congruent.
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.7 - Use the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions to show that two triangles are congruent if and only if corresponding pairs of sides and corresponding pairs of angles are congruent.

Competencies

Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a comic strip that narrates the life cycle of an atom, from its formation to decay, incorporating interactions with isotopes and radioactive elements. This comic strip will serve as an engaging and creative way to demonstrate their understanding of atomic structures and behaviors. Additionally, students will produce a reflective art project that visually represents their personal and socio-emotional growth throughout the unit, capturing their evolving comprehension of the subject matter.

Launch

Begin the project with an interactive simulation where students embody atoms in different states of matter. In an open classroom space, students will first simulate a solid by standing close together and vibrating slightly. Next, they will transition to a liquid by moving slowly and sliding past one another, and finally, they will become a gas by spreading out and moving freely. This kinesthetic activity will help students visualize atomic behavior and set the stage for exploring atomic structures, isotopes, and radioactivity in the upcoming lessons.

Exhibition

Students will host a classroom exhibition where they present their collaborative comic strips to peers, teachers, and invited guests. Each group will share their story of an atom's journey, highlighting key concepts such as atomic structure, isotopes, and radioactivity. Attendees will engage in interactive discussions, providing feedback on scientific accuracy and creative storytelling. The exhibition will include a gallery walk of reflective art projects, allowing students to express their personal growth and understanding through visual and crafted pieces. This event will culminate in a group reflection session to discuss insights and learning experiences.