Teaching Guide: The Evolution of Atomic Theory
This lesson plan covers major developments and changes in atomic theory, with a focus on the 1800s and 1900s.
J.J. Thomson and Ernest Rutherford conversing, Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge. Photograph by D. Schoenberg, courtesy of AIP Emilio Segrè Visual Archives, Bainbridge Collection.
This lesson plan covers major developments and changes in atomic theory, with a focus on the 1800s and 1900s. Students will make timelines, read real primary sources of the discoveries in atomic theory, and either learn how to model atoms or conduct research on underrepresented scientists who contributed to breakthrough discoveries in atomic theory.
Grade level(s): 9-12
Guide subjects: Chemistry, History, Physics
Minority Group(s): Muslim, Women, African-American
In-class time: 45-55 minutes
Prep time: 15-20 minutes
Technology Requirements: Student web access optional
Common Core Standards: Speaking & Listening
Next Generation Science Standards: Matter and Its Interactions, Waves and Their Application in Technologies for Information Transfer