Marshmallow Molecules - Atoms & Molecules
Grades 1-3
Description: Students learn
the difference between atoms and molecules, practice following directions
for a science project, use their creativity to design a molecule, and use
writing and computer skills.
Grade Level: Primary
Materials: For this experiment
you will need: a couple of bags of colored marshmallows (they usually come
in four different colors) or colored gumdrops, toothpicks and paper plates.
A project the children enjoy is making
marshmallow molecules. This experiment will help your students understand
the difference between an atom and a molecule.
Tell the children that each marshmallow represents an
atom. Toothpicks are used to join the atoms. When atoms are joined they
will form a molecule. To begin, each child should receive four different
colors of marshmallows: 5 of one color that will represent Hydrogen, 3
of one color that will represent Oxygen, and one each of the third and
fourth colors that will represent Carbon and Nitrogen.
Have the children make a water molecule from two hydrogen
atoms and one oxygen atom. Make a carbon dioxide molecule from one carbon
atom and two oxygen atoms. Make an ammonia molecule from one nitrogen atom
and three hydrogen atoms.
Next, have your students design a molecule on their own.
The children can write a story about the molecule. What is its name? How
did they make it? How can it be used? The children can do this on the computer
using computer programs such as Kid Pix and Microsoft Works
or the Fine Artist and Creative Writer programs.
Give the students homework to recreate the molecules at
home teaching their parents about molecules and atoms. After they show
their parents the marshmallows construction, they should show their parents
printouts of their work on the computer. If they have a computer at home
they might want to design more molecules on the computer and bring their
work back to school. If they don't have a computer or prefer to draw by
hand, they should bring their hand drawings to class. Make sure the children
label and title their work! They are the molecule inventors!
Suggestions for Parents: This
is an easy lesson for parents to replicate or to use at home with their
children. It is a great way to start some family talks about fun with science.
Submitted by:
Celeste Bunting,
Grade 1 Teacher
Worcester Country School
Berlin, Maryland 21811
Lesson Plan Disclaimer
