Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we model the unseen world of particles to understand the structure of matter around us?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- What is matter made of?
- How small are the particles that make up matter?
- How can we model something we cannot see?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
- Understand the scale and size of particles that make up matter.
- Apply models to explain the structure of matter.
- Understand what matter is made of
NGSS
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsMicroscopic Mystery Box
**Microscopic Mystery Box:** A locked box is presented, containing a common substance (e.g., sugar, salt). Students use only observation (no touching/tasting) and prior knowledge to hypothesize what's inside and what its tiniest components might look like. This sparks curiosity about the unseen world and the need for models.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Matter Brainstorm & Initial Particle Drawings
Students brainstorm different types of matter and discuss what they already know about their composition. They create initial drawings of what they think particles of different substances might look like.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA collection of initial drawings and a list of questions about the particle nature of matter.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses 5-PS1-1 by introducing the concept of matter being made of particles and setting the stage for modeling.Atoms & Molecules: Research and Define
Students research the scientific definition of atoms and molecules. They create diagrams and written explanations to define these terms in their own words.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityDiagrams and definitions of atoms and molecules, demonstrating understanding of these concepts.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers 5-PS1-1 by researching and understanding the scientific concept of atoms and molecules.Particle Model Construction
Students use various materials (e.g., beads, balls, connectors) to build a 3D model representing the particles of a chosen substance. They label the components of their model (atoms, molecules) and explain how it demonstrates that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA physical model of particles with labels and a written explanation.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with 5-PS1-1 by designing and building a model representing particles.Model Presentation, Feedback, and Refinement
Students present their models to the class, receive feedback, and refine their models based on the feedback and new knowledge gained throughout the project. They also discuss the limitations of their models in representing the true nature of particles.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA refined particle model and a presentation explaining the model, feedback received, changes made, and limitations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses 5-PS1-1 by refining the model based on peer feedback and new knowledge, and explaining the limitations.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioParticle Model Rubric
Particle Model Assessment
Assessment of the particle model, including its accuracy, clarity, construction, and presentation.Accuracy of Particle Representation
Accuracy of the model in representing the arrangement and behavior of particles in the chosen substance.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe model accurately represents the arrangement and behavior of particles, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the subject matter. The model demonstrates innovative application of the concepts.
Proficient
3 PointsThe model accurately represents the arrangement and behavior of particles, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
Developing
2 PointsThe model shows an emerging understanding of particle arrangement and behavior, but contains some inaccuracies or omissions.
Beginning
1 PointsThe model shows a limited understanding of particle arrangement and behavior, with significant inaccuracies or omissions.
Clarity of Labels and Explanations
Clarity and completeness of labels and explanations in identifying the components of the model (atoms, molecules) and describing the behavior of the particles.
Exemplary
4 PointsLabels and explanations are exceptionally clear, complete, and insightful, demonstrating a deep understanding of the model's components and particle behavior. The explanation shows exceptional critical thinking.
Proficient
3 PointsLabels and explanations are clear, complete, and accurate, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the model's components and particle behavior.
Developing
2 PointsLabels and explanations are partially clear and complete, but may contain some inaccuracies or omissions.
Beginning
1 PointsLabels and explanations are unclear, incomplete, or inaccurate, demonstrating a limited understanding of the model's components and particle behavior.
Quality of Model Construction
Quality of the model construction, including the appropriate selection and use of materials to represent particles and their interactions.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe model is exceptionally well-constructed, using materials creatively and effectively to represent particles and their interactions. The model is durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Proficient
3 PointsThe model is well-constructed, using materials appropriately to represent particles and their interactions. The model is reasonably durable and neat.
Developing
2 PointsThe model is adequately constructed, but may have some flaws in the selection or use of materials. The model may be somewhat fragile or messy.
Beginning
1 PointsThe model is poorly constructed, with inappropriate materials or significant flaws that detract from its effectiveness. The model is fragile or messy.
Presentation Effectiveness
Effectiveness of the presentation in explaining the model, feedback received, changes made, and limitations of the model.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe presentation is exceptionally clear, engaging, and insightful, demonstrating a deep understanding of the model, the feedback process, changes made, and the limitations. The presentation shows exceptional critical thinking and communication skills. Student shows leadership in collaborative setting.
Proficient
3 PointsThe presentation is clear, engaging, and informative, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the model, the feedback process, changes made, and the limitations.
Developing
2 PointsThe presentation is partially clear and informative, but may lack detail or clarity in some areas.
Beginning
1 PointsThe presentation is unclear, disorganized, or incomplete, demonstrating a limited understanding of the model, the feedback process, changes made, and the limitations.