Molecule Models
Read ball-and-stick models to find atoms, molecules and reactions.
Molecule Models shows ball-and-stick pictures of molecules, with a color key that tells which element each ball stands for. Level 1 asks children to identify an atom by its color and count the atoms in a model. Level 2 then moves to names and formulas, such as water, carbon dioxide, hydrogen gas and hydrogen chloride.
Next, children sort substances into elements and compounds, and count how many atoms of each kind appear, including when a picture shows several copies of one molecule. Level 5 puts models on both sides of a reaction arrow and asks about reactants, products and whether the atoms balance. The final level asks the child to tap the matching model.
What children practice
- Identify elements from the colors of atoms in a model
- Match molecule models to their names and formulas
- Tell an element from a compound in a picture
- Count each kind of atom in one or several molecules
- Name reactants and products in a chemical reaction
- Check whether the atoms on both sides of a reaction balance
Levels
- Level 1: Atom colors and counting
- Level 2: Name the molecule
- Level 3: Element or compound
- Level 4: Count each kind of atom
- Level 5: Chemical reactions
- Level 6: Tap the matching model
How it works
- Six levels build from atom colors to chemical reactions and tapping a model.
- Getting five right plus finishing the timer unlocks the next level.
- A wrong choice shows try again, so your child can keep working on the same question.
- Questions have a speaker button, and each correct answer has a short explanation.
Best for: A good fit for grades 5 to 10 when children are starting chemistry and need to connect formulas to pictures of molecules.
Tip for parents: Build a few models at home with LEGO bricks or gumdrops and toothpicks, using one color per element. Then ask your child to write the formula for what they built.
Questions parents ask
Which molecules does the game use?
It uses simple ones such as water, carbon dioxide, ammonia, methane, hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and hydrogen chloride, plus single atoms. Level 1 gives a color key so children can read which element each ball stands for.
Does the game teach balancing equations?
Level 5 shows reactions with models and asks whether the atoms balance, how many of each atom or molecule are on each side, and which substances are reactants or products. It does not ask children to write equations.
Is memorizing the periodic table required?
No. Level 1 teaches children to use a color key to identify elements, and repeated practice makes common ones such as hydrogen, oxygen and carbon familiar over time, without a list to memorize.
Ready to try it?
Molecule Models is free with a parent account. A parent adds a child profile, and the child's progress is saved.