Introduction
This project showcases a set of interactive models developed in NetLogo (Wilensky, 1999), aimed at enhancing the understanding of particle interactions in middle school science classes. It demonstrates the application of computational models to simplify complex scientific concepts.
Audience and Setting
Designed for middle school students, these models serve as an introductory tool in science classes, providing a hands-on learning experience. They offer an engaging approach to explore fundamental scientific principles in a classroom setting.
Project Goals and Learning Objectives
The primary goal of this project was to facilitate a deeper understanding of particle behavior under varying temperatures, states of matter, and the impact of environmental changes on these particles. The learning objectives focused on enabling students to visually comprehend and analyze these concepts through interactive models.
Project Description
The project comprises two NetLogo models based on the Molecular Dynamics Lennard-Jones model (Kelter & Wilensky, 2022). The 'Thermal Mix' model simulates particle interactions at different temperatures, while the 'Evaporation' model demonstrates the process and effects of evaporation. Both models are designed to make abstract scientific concepts more tangible and understandable for students."
Software Specification and Applications
Model 1: Thermal Mix
The model aims to visually represent how particles interact and behave under different temperature conditions. It serves as an educational tool to help students understand concepts like thermal energy, particle motion, and temperature effects on matter.
Example Code
Example Trajectory
As the temperature sliders of different areas are adjusted by the user, the particles move differently according to the temperature whereas more red particles(high-temperature particles) appear within the higher temperature area and more blue particles(temperature particles appear with the lower temperature area.)
Model 2: Evaporation
This model vividly demonstrates how water molecules transition from liquid to gas under varying temperature conditions. Key features include adjustable temperature and firepower sliders, and switches for opening or closing container lids. These elements allow students to experiment with and observe the rate and mechanics of evaporation in real-time, providing a deeper understanding of this essential physical process.
Example Code
Example Trajectory
As the firepower is set to the highest on the right container, the particles quickly evaporate in the air while the particles in the closed-lid left container remain regular speed. When the lid on the right container is closed, the particles move into the air keep moving and are influenced by the room-temperature. If the particles-die? toggle is selected, the particles in the air will remain moving and might fall into the left container and create temperature change in the left container.
Student Engagement and Learning Trajectories
The models are structured to encourage exploration, allowing students to manipulate variables and observe outcomes. This interactive approach facilitates a progressive understanding, from basic concept recognition to advanced analysis and application, thereby supporting various stages of learning.
Reference
Kelter, J. and Wilensky, U. (2022). NetLogo Molecular Dynamics Lennard-Jones model. http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/models/MolecularDynamicsLennard-Jones. Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL.
Wilensky, U. (1999). NetLogo. http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/. Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL.