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.

Part 1:Atom Model

1. Research one element from the periodic table of your choice.

2. Make an accurate and neat 3-D atomic model representing the element you choose
Or make an edible item (with enough to share with the class)

 Label each part of your atom and include the name of your element (on actual model or on an
attached 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)
- Correct relative size of Protons, Neutrons, and electrons

3. Your atom must be able to hang from the ceiling or be displayed ON IT’S OWN some other way.

4. You may 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)
- If you use a food item, make sure that it has a cover/lid.

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. For 5 points
extra credit, your essay may be contained on the sides of an UNOPENED tissue box.
 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 3­D model with  10
identifiable subatomic 
particles
Workmanship – No pieces  10
fall off, quality 
construction, looks 
neat/tidy
Protons – correct #, location 5
Neutrons – correct #, 5
location
Electrons – correct #, 10
location
Atomic particles accurately 5
proportionate in size (mass)
KEY – color coded and 5
attached to model
Total 50
Written Component

Written Essay Possible Points Total points earned

Requirements
Atomic # & Symbol 2
Mass (with units) 2
Name 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 (3) 6
Physical properties (3) 6
Images/Photos (3) 6
Date of Discovery and 2
Origin of Name
Name of Scientist(s) who 2
discovered
Common Uses Today 4
References 4
Total 50