Dramatization
The
more concepts which can be dramatized, the better. Dramatization
engages students emotionally and socially,
as well as intellectually. The students thoroughly enjoy it,
and it leaves strong, memorable impressions which later aid
recall and improve learning.
These
photos will give you a glimpse into the power of HOLY MOL-EE!'s
dramatic activities. |
Activity
5: Atomic and Molar Mass |
Activity 6: The Mole King Opera |
Activity 7: A Human
Model of Chemistry Basics |
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| The
teacher leads the discussion while using a few class members
to demonstrate the relationship between atomic and molar mass.
(Above see the 4 nucleons of Helium and the 4 graham cracker
boxes.) |
A
full scale, although short (ca. 5 minutes), dramatic production
including costumes and props teaches why the mole is a central
idea in chemistry. A small group of students may prepare this
as a special presentation, or it may be given to a drama teacher
to prepare as a class project. |
This
is the best way, bar none, to teach the characteristics of metals
and nonmetals, as well as the basic structure of the periodic
table. Students always remember this activity. Involves the
construction of simple props. (These girls are portraying a
salt. See the metal and nonmetal "costumes.") |
Activity
8: Bonding and Primary Oxidation Numbers |
Activity 9: Net Electric
Charge Class Demo |
Activity 16: Periodic
Trends Class Demos |
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| An
extension of the "Chemistry Basics" activity, students
act out oxidation state patterns and bonding. Fun to watch.
(Oxygen has just stolen 2 "electrons" from Magnesium.) |
Brilliant
demo performed with music to show that ions become positive
ONLY as electrons are removed from the neutral atom, rather
than having positive charged added. As the electron comes off
(arrow), the nuclear proton's positive charge becomes "visible."
(She is waving at you.) |
Simple
dramatizations which demonstrate trends in atomic size, electronegativity
and ionization energy. The girl "electron" on the
right is being pulled in closer to the nucleus by the 4 "protons"
on the left. They are calling and beckoning to her. |
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