To understand most of the chemistry concepts, it is essential to have an adequate knowledge on the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in compounds. Since molecules and polyatomic ions have specific three-dimensional shapes, students often find it difficult to visualize the molecular geometry with the abstract concepts. It can be observed that without providing the vital educational tools such as atomic models and personal computer based modeling software, it is difficult to achieve the desired objectives of teaching some concepts in chemistry. Molecular modeling kits are hardly available in schools and in open market in Sri Lanka and most other developing countries.  These two issues are identified as difficulties faced by Sri Lankan students studying chemistry in urban and rural areas. This study explains the development of a build-it-yourself low cost atomic modeling kit using waste material. This proposed build-it-yourself atomic modeling kit can be built by students themselves with a minimum effort. These atomic model based class room teaching practices allow students to visualize and understand spatial arrangement of atoms for given molecules. Also, the use of waste material generated in the classroom help students to understand the ways they can contribute to minimize the environmental pollution.

Smiar, K., & Mendez, J. D. (2016). Creating and Using Interactive, 3D-Printed Models to  Improve Student Comprehension of the Bohr Model of the Atom, Bond Polarity, and Hybridization. Journal of Chemical Education, 93(9), 1591-1594.

Springer, M. T. (2014). Improving students’ understanding of molecular structure throughbroad-based use of computer models in the undergraduate organic chemistry lecture. Journal of Chemical Education, 91(8), 1162-1168.

Cipolla, L., & Ferrari, L. A. (2016). Big Atoms for Small Children: Building Atomic Model from Common Materials To Better Visualize and Conceptualize Atomic Structure. Journal of Chemical Education, 93(6), 1068-1072.

Pfennig, B. W., & Frock, R. L. (1999). The use of molecular modeling and VSEPR theory inthe undergraduate curriculum to predict the three-dimensional structure of molecules. Journal of Chemical Education, 76(7), 1018-1022.