Eighth graders in teacher Kerry Tarantino’s middle school science class were captivated as they explored the subatomic particles of an atom in a dynamic, hands-on experience. To bring atomic structures to life, Tarantino constructed a giant 3D bubble from plastic, representing the atom’s nucleus. The students collaboratively worked to determine the correct number of protons, neutrons and electrons needed to assemble a given atom. Stepping into “The Atomic Zone,” complete with theme music from “The Twilight Zone,” the students shrank down to atomic size to assemble their atom, placing protons and neutrons inside the bubble while ensuring electrons orbited at specified distances.
“This activity helped students visualize concepts that are difficult to grasp because they can’t be seen without the aid of magnification,” Tarantino explained. “It’s even more fun to climb in and out of the giant bubble.”
