It's important for students to understand the differences between elements, compounds, and mixtures, and provide examples of where they appear in real life. This allows students to better distinguish models and the things that make up everything around us! In this activity, students will create a model to represent an element, a compound, and a mixture and then provide examples of each using an image from Photos for Class or creating an illustration.
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Student Instructions
Compare the different makeups of elements, compounds, and mixtures in a storyboard by creating a particle diagram. Find two examples of each.
Invite students to physically sort common classroom materials into groups of elements, compounds, and mixtures. Use labels, baggies, or trays for each group. This approach gives students a tangible way to visualize and reinforce the differences between these substance types.
Ask students to describe colors, textures, and visible components of each sample. Encourage them to notice whether the sample looks uniform or mixed. Recording these observations sharpens students’ abilities to distinguish between compounds and mixtures based on appearance.
Have students make predictions about what will happen if two samples are mixed (for example, salt and water or sand and iron filings). Discuss whether a new substance forms or if the original materials remain visible. This helps students identify key differences between chemical and physical changes.
Lead a brief class discussion where students share their findings and reasoning for each category. Clarify misconceptions and connect each example to the definitions of elements, compounds, and mixtures. This reinforces understanding through peer learning and teacher feedback.
Elements are pure substances made of only one type of atom. Compounds consist of two or more different elements chemically bonded together. Mixtures contain two or more substances physically combined, but not chemically bonded. Each type has unique properties and can be found in everyday life.
Use visual models like particle diagrams and real-life examples. Have students build diagrams, find images, and discuss how the substances are combined. Hands-on activities and relatable examples make it easier for students to distinguish between compounds and mixtures.
Compounds: Water (H2O), table salt (NaCl). Mixtures: Salad, air, and trail mix. These examples are familiar and help students connect science to their everyday lives.
Use ball-and-stick models or drawing tools to represent atoms and bonds. For compounds, show different atoms connected. For mixtures, show different types of particles grouped but not bonded. Label and describe each diagram for clarity.
Comparing these helps students understand how matter is organized and recognize the building blocks of everything around them. It develops critical thinking and supports deeper learning in chemistry and real-world science applications.