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Full access Chemistry and matter

Atom or molecule: grouping the notation

Build a tactile kit for reading chemical notation. Reuse the same four tokens and two loose frames for successive puzzles. Each token carries a permanently attached raised H; meaning does not depend on colour.

Age
12–14 years
Length
approx. 45 min
Level
Easy
Where you teach
School
Purpose
Educational
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How to run this session

Stages and timing
  1. Four tokens with a raised H
  2. Two open frames

What gets built

Distinguish an atom from a molecule and correctly interpret H₂, 2H and 2H₂.

What it practises
  • Distinguishing an atom from a molecule
  • Reading coefficient and subscript in hydrogen notation

Success criteria
  • I have four solid tokens with attached H marks and two open frames; pieces are cool and lie freely.
  • First learn with two cooled tokens and one frame: predict, model 2H and then H₂, and explain what grouping changes. H here denotes an atom; H₂ is a molecule of the element hydrogen, containing two chemically bonded atoms, not a compound of different elements. A coefficient before a symbol or formula counts the specified entities. The lower-right subscript gives the number of atoms of that element in one H₂ molecule. A value of one is normally omitted. A subscript is neither a charge nor an exponent. Moving pieces is not a reaction or hydrogen production.
  • Then cover the example and put completed models aside. Complete four separate independent cases: H, 2H, H₂ and 2H₂. Read only the current notation. Each time clear the field, place unused parts outside it, construct the model and record the atom count, molecule count and reason. Your partner gives no hints and does not show their arrangement. Reset after recording each answer. Finally swap author and solver roles for your own puzzle, within four tokens and two frames.

What you need
Filament
PLA
Colours
blue
Also
3D pen with stand and power supply, Transparent work mat, A4 paper, Pencil, Ruler

Files

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Version 9bf7e3bd-08db-4d17-9574-44e911811807 Updated 2026-10-19

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