I chose to incorporate the Gem Model with students understanding the molecular structure of atoms and more importantly understanding what makes a positive or negative ion as well as understanding how an atom can be stable or unstable. To enhance the GEM model with technology integration I chose to use a simulation from the PhET website. https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/category/htmlI have used similar simulations like this before. PhET provides fun, interactive, research-based simulations of physical phenomena for free. The research-based approach enables students to make connections between real-life phenomena and the underlying science, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the physical world. To help students visually comprehend concepts, PhET simulations animate what is invisible to the eye through the use of graphics and intuitive controls such as click-and-drag manipulation, sliders and radio buttons. These simulations are particularly helpful when teaching abstract science since they facilitate using modeling and inquiry together in an activity. Both modeling and inquiry facilitate the development and revision of abstract concepts and, as such, can be considered as a joint educational endeavor. (Khan, 2007)
The TELE I chose to use is an activity called ‘build an atom’. https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/build-an-atom/latest/build-an-atom_en.html
Adapted from the models in research literature (Khan, 2010), I chose to apply the gem model for this activity below:
| GEM Phase | Teaching Methods |
| Generate | Encourage students to identify specific models of atomsCompare the models and explore the numbers of protons neutrons and electrons |
| Evaluate | Select specific cases for students
to investigateAsk students to predict outcomes prior to completing the simulation.Ask students to proceed using incremental values of electrons.
Determine the factors in generating positive or negative ions. What relationship does the net charge of an ion have in relation to the nomenclature of the ion? Determine what the relationship between protons, neutrons and molecular stability. |
| Modify | Ask students to revisit earlier models that were generatedSummarize the findings.Ask students to explore new activities and extend their learning. |
Khan, S. (2007). Model-based inquiries in chemistry. Science Education, 91(6), 877-905.
Khan, S. (2010). New pedagogies for teaching with computer simulations. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 20(3), 215-232.