Build a Model Atom
Make your own atom and discover what is inside everything!
Everything is made of atoms, but you cannot see them — not even with a microscope. This model helps you picture what atoms look like and how energy can come from deep inside.
What You Will Need:
Clay or modeling dough in three colors
Toothpicks or pipe cleaners
Paper for labels
Markers or pencils
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Use red clay for protons, blue for neutrons, and yellow for electrons.
Roll small balls and form the nucleus with red and blue ones.
Use toothpicks or pipe cleaners to make rings around the nucleus.
Place yellow electrons on the rings.
Label each part and count how many are in each group.
What to Look For:
What parts are inside the nucleus?
Where do the electrons go?
Which part holds the energy?
Curie Fun Fact!
Marie Curie discovered that the nucleus of an atom could give off powerful energy!
Safety Tip:
Do not poke yourself with toothpicks and ask for help with tricky assembly.
Track Your Atomic Creation!
Element I Modeled: ____________
Protons: ____, Neutrons: ____, Electrons: ____
My Model Shows: ______________________
Sketch: [Draw your atom]
