Science · Stage 6

Atoms, Elements and Compounds

Everything is built from tiny atoms. Learn to tell an element (one kind of atom) from a compound (different kinds joined).

✦ Science📘 Stage 6 · S6⏱ ~12 min🧒 Ages 10–12★ Free to start

I can tell whether a substance is an element or a compound by looking at the kinds of atoms it is made of.

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Kavi and the Building Blocks of Everything

Kavi picks up a shiny gold coin 🥇 and a cold drop of water 💧. "Did you know everything — the coin, the water, even YOU — is built from tiny blocks called atoms, far too small to ever see?" hoots Kavi. "Some things are made of just ONE kind of atom — we call those elements. Others are two or more different kinds of atom joined together — those are compounds. Come and learn to tell them apart!"

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What your child will learn

1What is everything made of?All matter is built from tiny atoms. Tap each word to learn what it means.

2Element or compound?Both look like clear substances — but their atoms tell them apart. Tap each one.

3Sort each substanceLook at the kinds of atom in each one, then tap Element or Compound.

4Work it outDecide element or compound, then tap to check. Tap Next test for more.

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A peek inside

A tank holds a gas made of only oxygen atoms (O₂). Is it an element or a compound?

I count the KINDS of atom. There is only one kind — oxygen. Having two oxygen atoms joined does not matter, because they are the same kind. One kind of atom means an element.

Try this at home: What is the tiny building block that everything is made of?

Ready to play and learn?

Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.

Start the free lesson →⬇ Download PDF

Part of Science · Stage 6 · S6 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.