THREE BASIC CONCEPTS IN TEACHING THE ATOM: INFINITY, VOID AND ARCHE

Abstract

In this study the concepts of arche (essence), infinity and void that are rooted in the atomist thoughts of ancient Greek philosophers have been explained using easily applicable scientific activities. The activities were carried out with a study group of (N=73) participants consisting of science teacher candidates. Worksheets were used to carry out and evaluate the activities and the qualitative data obtained were evaluated. It was concluded as a result of the study that questioning the continuity of matter, comprehending matter as void and arche are important in understanding the concept of atom and nature and that macro world is not a copy of the micro world meaning that it should be perceived differently. In addition to the results, the study also suggests a different approach that makes it easier to teach the concept of atom via introductory activities developed with inspiration from the work of antique period philosopher Lucretius entitled De Rerum Natura.

Keywords: Atom, Infinity, Void, Arche, Scientific Activity.

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