ISSN 1017-2548(Print)
ISSN 2234-8530(Online)
Volume 58, Number 6
JKCSEZ 58(6)
December 20, 2014 

The concepts used to explain specific phenomenon can be influenced by context or coherent regardless of context. The purpose of this study is to understand middle school students’ concept of particles in particular context and to investigate the effects of context on concept of particles. A conceptual questionnaire was developed to find out how students represented particles in two contexts: solid and solution states of electrolytes, and ion precipitation reaction. The questionnaire was administered to 9th grade students after classes of ‘electrolyte and ions’ unit. The responses of students were analyzed using framework developed for categorization of students’ concepts. The results are as follows: First, it was found that students used various concepts on particles when they explained solid and solution state of electrolytes, respectively. Second, we identified students’ concepts of particles used to explain ion precipitation reaction. In addition, we recognized that majority of students failed to write correct chemical symbols. Third, approximately 79% of students showed coherent responses for explanation of particles in solution state of both electrolytes and ion precipitation reaction. About 57% of students had scientific concepts. Some suggestions were made based on results for acquisition of scientific concepts on particles in different contexts.