A model is worth a thousand words. Young scholars use what they know about the structure of hydrocarbons to build Lewis dot structures and molecular models. Their tasks include multiple bonds, geometric hybrids, and various isomers.

During this hands-on activity, young chemists build molecular models based on the Lewis dot structure before studying valence shell electron pair repulsion theory. 

In this molecular model activity, students use a molecular model kit to construct 13 different molecule models. After constructing the molecules, the students complete 32 short answer questions.

Pupils explore the concept of molecular modeling and differentiate between saturated and unsaturated compounds. In small groups, they identify molecular formulas, complete a chart comparing alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, and construct a...

Display the arrangement of molecules in solids, liquids, and gases. Demonstrate how the addition of heat energy results in greater molecular motion and therefore a change of phase. Give examples of heat conductors and insulators, and...

Learners practice drawing Lewis dot structures, build molecules with model kits, and predict molecular shapes using VSEPR theory. The combination of written work and hands-on reinforcement benefits young scientists.

How many planets can you name? Did you get all 13 in our solar system, including the dwarf planets, or were you surprised when you read there are 13 planets? The lesson helps scholars understand the scale of the universe including the...

Why do experiments require a control? Guide scholars through designing an experiment to see what they can do to evaporate water faster with a activity that stresses the importance of controlling all variables. The second activity...

One way to study the microscopic is to make it macroscopic. Each slide of the lesson presentation presents a different molecular model along with a brief description of the compound's function. Learners use the information to build...

In these creative hands-on activities, young scholars construct several different molecular models that represent substances that play an essential role in our nutritional needs. Using gum drops and toothpicks, students design the...

In this molecule worksheet, students use a molecular model kit to build the molecule, draw a three-dimensional structure, and describe its shape. This worksheet has 2 graphic organizers.

Science teams make models of four different hydrocarbon compounds that we commonly use for fuel. Then they demonstrate chemical reactions that result when energy is produced. This can be used as an enrichment when your class is studying...

In this molecular formula learning exercise students fill in a table describing elements and chemical formulas. They identify, elements by type and how they bond. The student analyze molecular formulas to identify the number of atoms and...

Neatly organized and easy to read, this chart summarizes five different molecular shapes: linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, trigonal bipyramidal, and octahedral. It associates shapes with electron pairs and atom arrangement and lists...

Sometimes it's okay to eat your science experiment. A hands-on activity has pupils create models for algae to learn about its cellular structure. The best part of the experiment? The resulting juice-filled gels are edible—yum!

Glucose is a simple sugar and a molecule that can be illustrated through modeling. Scientific investigators with visual impairments use hands-on models to reconstruct the process of bonding molecules. The tools used in this activity are...

Learners use models to visualize molecular structures. Students read about Lewis dot structures, hybridization, and formal charge. Then learners build and draw the molecules and ions given. Students complete 11 pre-lab questions and 4...

View molecular structure for various compounds with three-dimensional color images. 

Nine action-packed organic chemistry exercises are contained in this mini-unit on carbon containing compounds. Examples include constructing models of alkanes, producing aromatic esters, and preparing pigments for paint and dyes....

In this molecules worksheet, students answer post lab questions about types of bonds, factors that determine polarity and molecular geometry. They calculate electronegativity differences in atoms and determine the types of bonds between...

Students construct models of hydrocarbon molecules using candy and toothpicks. In this hydrocarbons lesson plan, students are given a sheet with the molecular formulas of hydrocarbons. As a group, they construct each molecule using...

For this molecular shapes worksheet, students read about how to predict molecular shapes in molecules based on the number of electron pairs and the VSEPR theory. Students are given twelve molecules, they draw the Lewis structures and...

In this molecules worksheet, students use a molecular model kit to build a molecule, draw a 3-D structure and describe its shape. This worksheet has 2 graphic organizers.

It's time to whip your chemistry class into shape! Begin your study of molecular geometry with a colorful, 3-D interactive. The resource shows models of linear, trigonal planar, and tetrahedral molecules.