THE MOLECULARIUM PROJECT is an educational outreach effort of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Nanotechnology Center. The website is intended to promote an interest and understanding of the molecular nature of the world in users of all ages.
Created as an online theme park, the website teaches learners about atoms and molecules through games, activities and short animations.
The NANOSPACE interactive website begins with a graphic interface with a science museum theme called the HALL OF ATOMS & MOLECULES. Background music and sounds make users feel like they’re exploring a busy museum. However, the audio feature can easily be turned off. An introductory YouTube video explains the basics of nanotechnology.
The THEATRE provides an overview of the full-length film Molecules to the Max! Then, provides users with the opportunity to watch seven short science videos.
The H20 PARK section provides a short video and activities including H20 Ferris Wheel, Who Wants to Be A Quindecillionaire and H20 Parlor.
The SIZES OF THE UNIVERSE area features Dimension Zone, Cosmic Calculations, MegaPenny Project, and Microlab to learn about size scales.
The DNA LAND includes a short DNA video, the Polypeptide Puzzler, Unravel the Chromosome, and Helix of Fortune activities.
The MATERIALS BLVD includes a short video on the topic of matter along with the What’s the Matter?, Carbon is Incredible, Periodic Memory and Polymer Chain Game.
The NANOSPACE Arcade provides access to five additional science activities including On Storm, Atomatic, Electronz, Mission to Bond, and Build ‘Em.
An EDUCATORS section provides downloadable (PDF) teacher resources for grades K-4 and 5-8. It also includes a guide with direct links to all the resources at the website for quick reference. This is very useful because students can easily miss sections when visiting the theme park interface.
This website provides a great way for librarians and science teachers to collaborate on STEM activities. Consider building a nanotechnology display in the library that includes the a laptop or tablet with the website along with books and hands-on science materials.
Visit THE MOLECULARIUM PROJECT website athttp://nanospace.molecularium.com/.
For lots of hands-on experiment ideas, go to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Molecules-to-the-MAX/263266006094
