Up and Atom

Student Activities

Students may use the video provided to view a sample, student-created, atomic model.

Students will select an atom to create in Minecraft.  Students must decide on an appropriate scale model for their atom. For example, 1 electron, in the form of a Minecart, will equal a 2 x 2 x 2 cube of blocks to form either a proton or neutron. A atom with a smaller atomic mass should have a larger ratio, 3 x 3 x3, etc.

Students will build a working model of an atom using 1 type of block for protons, 1 type of block for neutrons, and minecarts for electrons. I recommend using powered rails, placed on top of redstone blocks to keep the minecrafts moving at all times. Students will determine the number of Minecarts per shell and may need to create several paths around the Nucleus.

Students will research the history of their atom and display that information either via NPC or Fact Wall, using Signs or Boards. Students will List the atoms atomic number, mass, and weight, either via the fact wall, NPC, or through a build.

Students will list at least two example uses of that atom in the form of a build/model.

Challenge: Turn your atom into a Parkour Map or Speed Run!

Students may do a gallery walk and tour each other's atoms at the end of the project or present to the entire class via a Projector. Students will take notes, either via paper, a worksheet, or signs/boards in Minecraft, listing important facts about peers atoms and builds.