Date:

Name:
Grade:
Topic/Theme:

Thursday, December 11th- Friday, December 12th, 2014

Megan Sawler
Science 9A, 9B, 9C (1 class each)
Making Molecules

Lesson Purpose: The purpose of this lesson is to build on the previous instruction of
Counting Atoms, and familiarize students with how atoms bond together to create
molecules. This lesson focuses on the chemical formulas, structures, and combinations
of molecules and compounds. Students will participate in a hands-on activity where they
will be building their own molecules in small groups.
Student Outcomes:
Identify examples of common elements and compare their characteristics and
atomic structure. (307-15)
Identify the elements and number of atoms, given a chemical formula. (307-16)
Use models in describing the structure and components of atoms and molecules.
(307-14, 208-7)
Authentic Student Assessment: Following the completion of this unit, students will be
assessed summatively on this outcome in the form of a test. During the lesson, students
will demonstrate knowledge based on how accurately they are able to build the
molecules. Observational assessment will be noted formatively but not summatively
recorded based upon how students interact as a team (learner profile), preparedness
(learner profile), and comprehension and demonstration of outcomes in relation to
atoms/elements/protons/neutrons/electrons/atomic calculations. Students will show
their understanding by completing the pre and post lab questions. This portion of the
class will be assessed summatively based on the answers students provide on the lab
report.
Prior Knowledge: It is expected that students have previously been introduced to atoms
both previously in this unit, and also in Science 7 and Science 8. Students will have a
basic knowledge of the periodic table and how to use it. Students are familiar with the
concept of elements and the use of the periodic table from the Adopt an Element
Project they previously completed. Students have also completed 4 previous activities
in this class based upon atomic calculations. Students have been exposed to Mendeleev
and his contributions to the periodic table as we see it today. Students have worked on
basic definitions and the process of creating molecules through the practice of counting
atoms.
Lesson:
Initially, students will be assigned partners or groups of 3 to complete this
activity.
Students will then complete the human bonding activity and create the assigned
molecules.
Students will then work in their small groups to work through the procedure of
the activity in which they will be creating molecules using beads and pipe

cleaners. During the activity, it is important that students document their work
using the guide sheet.
Following the completion of the procedure, it is expected that students will
complete the analysis questions based on the activity. This will be passed in for
summative assessment.
Following the completion of this activity, students will be using the remaining
time (if any) to work on whatever they need to finish (overdue assignments,
counting atom sheets, binder organization for binder check, or test review
questions).

Materials:
Place cards for names
Element cards
Sets and plastic trays of supplies for making molecules (beads, pipe cleaners)
Colouring supplies
Class set of Making Molecule sheets
Closure:
Students will be reminded of the upcoming expectations (Binder Check, Science
Test, Due date for Slime Post Lab, and extra help for Science and Binder Check).
Students will be asked to pass in their activity if they have completed it, and
reminded to clean up their work station and return the materials to the
appropriate location.
Professional Growth Target:
Identify students in each particular class who require extra attention and work
with them to personally assist them in a way which is meaningful and helpful to
them.
Attempt to identify students who are going to benefit from extra help for the
upcoming test and remind them I am available outside of class to help them
prepare.
Incorporate more kinesthetic learning into our Science 9 classroom.