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How to Make a Model of the Element Neon for Elementary Students

One of the easiest ways to introduce the topic of atomic structure to elementary school students is by creating atomic models. Many children know the element neon because of its use in sign lighting. Many scientific supply companies offer atomic model kits, but the cost can be prohibitive. Use a few common craft items to create a model of a neon atom, saving the cost of purchasing a manufactured kit.

Things You'll Need

Styrofoam balls
Brushes
Acrylic paint
Pipe cleaners
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  
  The periodic table provides information about neon atoms.
  
  Have the students look up the element neon on the periodic table. Neon is made up of 10 protons, 10 neutrons and 10 electrons. Explain the role of each of the atom̵7;s components.
- 2
  Explain the role of the nucleus. The nucleus, the center of the atom, contains protons and neutrons. Explain the relationship between the positively charged protons and neutrally charged neutrons.
- 3
  
  Use a small brush to create the circles.
  
  Paint the nucleus. Use two distinct colors of acrylic paint. Have the students paint a 4-inch Styrofoam ball. Using a thin artist̵7;s brush, paint small circles on the Styrofoam ball that represent the protons and neutrons. Paint 10 circles that represent the protons and 10 circles that represent the neutrons. Allow the paint to dry for at least 1 hour.
- 4
  Cut the pipe cleaners. The pipe cleaners are used to hold the electrons in place. The electrons will be positioned at varying heights to represent the different electron shells around the nucleus. Ten electrons orbit the nucleus. Using safety scissors, cut 2 pipe cleaners 2 inches in length and 8 pipe cleaners 4 inches in length.
- 5
  Insert the pipe cleaners. Place the two 2-inch pipe cleaners on opposite sides of the 4-inch Styrofoam ball that represents the nucleus. Push the pipe cleaners into the Styrofoam to mount them. Place the remaining eight 4-inch pipe cleaners in a ring around the nucleus. Position the longer pipe cleaners as evenly as possible around the ball.
- 6
  Paint the electrons. Using a small artist̵7;s brush and a third color, paint the 10 Styrofoam balls that represent the electrons. Use 1-inch Styrofoam balls for the electrons. Allow the paint to dry for at least 1 hour.
- 7
  Attach the electrons. Push the end of each pipe cleaner into the Styrofoam ball representing the electron. Repeat the process for each ball.
- 8
  Adjust the electrons' positions. Because pipe cleaners are flexible, they often get bent during the mounting process. Straighten each pipe cleaner so the electrons are sticking straight out from the nucleus. Question the students about their new knowledge of atomic structure.

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