How do you make something as invisible (and powerful) as nuclear fission come alive for your students? With this hands-on lesson from America’s Navy, your class will see the chain reaction that powers submarines and aircraft carriers. Using Lite-Brite boards, students model how splitting a single atom releases massive energy. It’s a fun, unforgettable way to explore the science behind nuclear power!
Click the link below to sign up for a complete classroom kit. If selected, you’ll receive everything you need to teach the lesson. While only about 200 teachers will get the full kit, every teacher who completes the form will receive the digital lesson plan so you can re-create the activity using your own materials.
Perfect for These Grade Levels and Subjects
This hands-on activity is perfect for high school chemistry and STEM classes. The subject matter and activities are best suited for students in grades 9-12 and advanced learners ready to dive deep into nuclear science and energy concepts.
What Students Will Learn
This lesson is aligned to NGSS high school standards with ties to topics like nuclear chemistry and STEM. Your students will learn about:
- Applications of Nuclear Chemistry
- Isotopes & Nuclear Notation
- Types of Radioactive Decay
- Nuclear Fission & Chain Reactions
Main NGSS Standard
HS-PS1-8: Develop models to illustrate the changes in the composition of the nucleus of the atom and the energy released during the processes of fission, fusion, and radioactive decay.
What’s in the Classroom Kit*
- Teachers guide with step-by-step facilitation notes and extension opportunities
- Student booklet featuring higher-order thinking questions and space for students to write down their discoveries
- Large-format classroom poster illustrating nuclear fission in action
- Periodic table foldouts for quick reference
- 7 Lite-Brite boards for hands-on modeling of chain reactions
*Physical kits are limited. But all who express interest will receive access to digital resources.
How To Sign Up
Want a chance to bring this exciting nuclear energy experience to your classroom? Click the button below to sign up for your chance to receive one of the kits distributed by America’s Navy and a digital copy of the lesson plan.
