Name: ___________________________ Date Due: ______________

Atomic Model Project

Purpose: Students will be able to describe the structure of atoms, including the masses, electrical
charges, and locations of protons and neutrons in the nucleus and electrons in the electron cloud.
Identify that protons determine an element’s identity and valence electrons determine its
chemical properties, including reactivity.

Project Instructions:

Part 1:Atom Model

1. Choose one element from the periodic table between Lithium, atomic # 3 and
Strontium, atomic # 38. (ASSIGNED IN CLASS)
2. Make an accurate and neat 3-D atomic model representing the element you choose
Or make a clearly labeled 2-D model on a mini poster (minimum 11in x 8in)
3. Label each part of your atom and include the name of your element (on actual model
or on a separate notecard)
 The following must be present in your atom
- Correct # of Protons
- Correct # of Neutrons for one Isotope of your atom
- Correct # and position of Electrons in energy levels (for a neutral atom)
4. Your atom must be able to hang from the ceiling (it cannot be too large, too small or
too heavy).
5. You may only use non-perishable items to make your model (i.e. construction paper,
styrofoam, toothpicks, paperclips, string, wire, paper, cotton balls, etc.).
- Make sure the materials that you use accurately represent each atomic
particle (i.e. Size, mass)

Part 2: Project Essay: Write an essay (or create a brochure) about your atom including all
the following information. This must be written in complete sentences using correct spelling
and punctuation.
 Atomic # and Symbol
 Mass number (average atomic mass rounded to the nearest whole #)
 What determines the identity of your element?
 Number and electric charge of the protons, neutrons and electrons
 Whether your atom is metal, non-metal or metalloid
 Number of valence electrons
 Group # (is it a member of a certain family?)
 Period #
 Electron Configuration
 Chemical properties
 Physical properties
 How did the element get its name? When was it discovered?
 What are some common uses today (i.e., where might you find it?)

REFERENCES: list the resources for where you found the information - if online
provide the complete URL, for books use standard format taught in ELA classes
 Atomic Model Project Grading Rubric

Name: _______________________ Atom: _______________________

Atom Model

Model Requirements Possible points Total points earned

Accurate 2-D or 3-D model 10
Protons – correct #, location 5
Neutrons – correct #, 5
location
Electrons – correct #, 5
location
Atomic particles accurately 5
proportionate in size (mass)
Total 30

Written Component

Written Essay Possible Points Total points earned

Requirements
Atomic # & Symbol 2
Mass (with units) 2
Identity of the atom 2
# and charge of protons 2
# and charge of neutrons 2
# and charge of electrons 2
Metal/Non-metal/Metalloid 2
# of valence electrons 2
Group # and Period # 2
Electron Configuration 2
Chemical properties 5
Physical properties 5
Date of Discovery, and/or 5
Origin of Name
Common Uses Today 5
Total 40

Project Grade: _______________________