Chemistry is not only for high school and college courses. Even young children in elementary school can learn about the building blocks of life. When using atom-themed science projects in the classroom or at home, set specific goals and objectives that relate to the science subject at hand. Include facts for the child to learn, such as there are 90 different kinds of atoms found in nature, or that there are 25 man-made atoms. Set goals for understanding the atom's structure. Learning that there are positive protons, neutral neutrons and negative electrons is crucial to understanding the atom's structure.
A model science project can help kids to better understand the structure of the atom. Create a three-dimensional structure using foam balls as protons, neutrons and electrons. Choose an atom to create and investigate the number of particles involved. Paint each type of foam ball in a different color. For example, protons can be purple, neutrons can be green and electrons can be orange. Connect the protons and neutrons with toothpicks. Use wire bent into circles for a planetary style model. Pierce the electron balls with the wire and create wire orbits. Attach these to the nucleus with fishing wire or yarn.
Children in third grade and up can create written reports on the atom as a thoughtful science project. Help students look up facts on atoms that include what an atom is, who works with atoms, how the atom was discovered and different types of atoms in nonfiction library books or online. Visit kid-friendly science websites, such as Science Kids at Home, Chem 4 Kids or the Science Spot Kid Zone, for useful information. Ask students to write or type a few sentences or paragraphs, depending on their age, about chemistry and atoms.
Atoms may have been in existence since the beginning of time, but we didn't always know about their presence. In 1661, Robert Boyle theorized the concept of the atom. Other scientists such as John Dalton and Robert Brown advanced this theory with their own ideas and discoveries on atomic theory. Help students understand the scientific process and the work behind making discoveries by creating an atomic timeline. Visit chemistry websites such as atomictimeline.net to search for specific dates, names and facts. For example, in 1803, Dalton theorized that atoms were sphere-shaped solid objects with mass. Use a long piece of rolled paper or tape together several pieces of 11-by-14-inch construction paper for a timeline background. Add dates and names with a marker. Print pictures on a computer or draw images of atoms and the scientists behind their discovery to add to the project.