My sixth grade class has been covering atoms, elements, molecules and the periodic table. I have created some gesturing that has created increased retention in my students.Di I mention they love it and are highly engaged.
Atomic Models: We have went with micro and macro modeling.
Micro-the students start out with arms wide and bring in to create a micro model.
Marco- the students have hands together then spread hands out to suggest macro
This have been helpful when we are discussing the importance of scientific models.
Proton- We make a fist in front of our chest to represent the proton
Neutron- We make another fist in front of our chest to represent our neutron
We then combine them into one hand to represent the nucleus and hold it in front of our chest (one hand in fist position)
Electron- we hold up our open hand with one finger up to represent the electron on the end of our finger.Then I say "electron movement"and the students move the electron around the nucleus in a sporadic motion.
I refresh them often by saying "show me atom"
Periodic Table- to teach the students about periods and groups we do the "Periodic Judo Chop"
The first motion is to represent the horizontal alignment of periods.
Period- Hand in position like you are waving and chop across your body like a Judo Chop
Groups- Hand in a waving position and Judo Chop up into the air
The students will remember groups and periodics with the "Periodic Judo Chop"
I also add some old school ninja movie lips syncs to give it more flare.
These motion increase retention and spark kinetic interest.