Atomic Theory Timeline Project
Standards Addressed:
SCSh7. Students will analyze how scientific knowledge is developed.
Students recognize that:
b. Universal principles are discovered through observation and experimental verification.
c. From time to time, major shifts occur in the scientific view of how the world works.
More often, however, the changes that take place in the body of scientific knowledge are
small modifications of prior knowledge. Major shifts in scientific views typically occur
after the observation of a new phenomenon or an insightful interpretation of existing data
by an individual or research group.
Assignment Requirements:
Your group will create a timeline illustrating the major changes in our understanding of
the atom. Your timeline should include the timeframe you signed up for. Resources
available for your research include:
 your textbook
o www.nsdl.org – National Science Digital Library
o www.chemistry.org
Using the resources, you will identify major contributions of scientists and events which
caused changes in our thinking regarding the atom. You will remember the work of
Dalton, Rutherford, and Bohr from your physical science course, but there are many other
scientists who made significant contributions. Events also occurred in the history of the
world which caused changes in the current perception of the atom. Your timeline should
include as many contributors as you can find. I encourage you to work together.
Your timeline will be created on a sheet of construction paper. This will be provided.
Other art supplies will be available, such as rulers and markers. Your work on the
timeline should be neat, but you may add your own personal touches including diagrams,
drawing, or other embellishments.
Due Date: You will have the entire class period on Thursday and Friday to complete
your work. Your timeline should be turned in at the end of class on Tuesday.
Assessment: Your timeline will count as a 45 point Test Grade. Do your best!!! See
rubric on back for specific information regarding scoring.
Assessment Rubric:
Standard
Content
Score: ______
Creativity
Score: ______
Effort/Task
Commitment:
1 point
Research on significant
events in the selected
time period has
significant omissions and
some information not
accurate.
2 points
Research on significant
events in the selected time
period is adequate and
accurate.
Timeline poster is
produced in a typical
manner with no
illustrations. Information
is written in an
unorganized fashion.
Timeline poster is
produced in a typical
manner with few
illustrations. Information
is mainly written, but
organized well.
Inadequate effort and
time on task.
Appropriate effort and
time on task.
Score: _______
Score Total _____ x 5 = ___________ Final Grade
3 points
Research on significant
events in the selected
time period is extensive
and accurate.
Timeline poster is
produced in a unique,
colorful, and insightful
manner. Handwriting is
neat. Good organization.
Eye catching.
Extensive research
efforts. Used time well.