Mississippi Science PHS.2

PHS.2 is a cluster heading. These are the individual standards under it.

• PHS.2.1

  Research and develop models (e.g., 3-D models, online simulations, or ball and stick) to investigate both modern and historical theories of atomic structure. Co...

01

What Students Need to Do

Students use short readings to build models of the atom, from Dalton’s model to the electron-cloud model. They compare what each model shows and explain what evidence led scientists to revise earlier models.

02

What Mastery Looks Like

Given five unlabeled diagrams, students can name and order the models. They can explain why evidence for a nucleus changed Thomson’s model and why the modern model does not show electrons on fixed paths.

03

Common Misconceptions

Students often draw electrons as tiny planets on fixed paths, even in a modern model. They may think older models were useless, rather than explanations that changed when scientists found new evidence.

04

How to Assess It

Give students five unlabeled atom sketches, one for each model. Ask them to name and order the models, then explain why the electron-cloud sketch has no fixed electron paths.

1. 01

   Use five paper circles, beads, pencil dots, and string to build Dalton, Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr, and electron-cloud models.

2. 02

   Read textbook summaries of Thomson’s and Rutherford’s experiments, then write why Rutherford rejected Thomson’s model.

3. 03

   Match five scientist cards with model sketches and evidence cards, then explain any pair that does not fit.

4. 04

   Examine a neon sign photo and explain how electron energy changes produce light, without claiming electrons travel in fixed rings.

• PHY.6

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of nuclear energy.

• CHE.4

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the types of bonds and resulting atomic structures for the classification of chemical compounds.

• CHE.2

  Students will demonstrate an understanding of the atomic structure and the historical developments leading to modern atomic theory.