Learning Intention: The Particle Zoo

Objective: Students will be able to identify and describe the different types of particles in the particle zoo.

Materials: - Whiteboard and markers - Handout with the particle zoo chart - Internet access for research

Introduction (10 minutes): 1. Begin by asking students if they have ever heard of the particle zoo. 2. Explain that the particle zoo is a term used to describe the different types of particles that make up the universe. 3. Show students the handout with the particle zoo chart and briefly explain what each particle is.

Main Activity (30 minutes): 1. Divide students into small groups. 2. Assign each group a different particle from the chart (e.g. quarks, leptons, bosons, etc.). 3. Instruct students to research their assigned particle and create a poster or presentation that includes the following information: - What is the particle’s role in the universe? - How was the particle discovered? - What are some of the particle’s properties? - What are some real-world applications of the particle? 4. Give students 20-25 minutes to work on their posters/presentations. 5. Have each group present their findings to the class.

Closure (10 minutes): 1. Ask students to share one thing they learned about particles from their group’s presentation. 2. Review the particle zoo chart as a class and ask students to identify which particles they found most interesting. 3. Encourage students to continue learning about particles and their role in the universe.

Assessment: Assessment will be based on the quality of the posters/presentations and the accuracy of the information presented. Additionally, the teacher will assess student participation and engagement during the activity.