If It Isn't There, It Doesn't Matter

Author: William Dorsey and Tonya Erby based on unit by: William Dorsey 6/14/2007 3:01:00 PM EDT

VITAL INFORMATION
Subject(s):
Science
 
Grade/Level:
7-9
 
Time Required:
4 class periods (45 minutes each)
 
Objective(s):
1. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the basic need and use of the periodic table and its associated trends. Student will demonstrate this through the development of a method of organization for their group's selected elements which will then be compared to existing trends on the periodic table.

2. Students will display their understanding of the basic language of elements (including atomic mass, atomic number, stability, and number/configuration of component parts) through the creation of a physical model of their assigned element.
 
Summary:
Students will use inquiry based learning to understand the need for and use of an organized periodic table of elements. They will also build real-world and virtual models of an atomic element. This unit will rely on individual work and group collaboration.
 
IMPLEMENTATION
Learning Activities:
1. Table It For Later
 Bill Dorsey
 
2. Inquiry in a Quark
 Tonya Erby
 
Resources and Unit Handouts:
  • Materials and resources:
    See each lesson for distinct and appropriate resources.
  • Technology resources:
    VRML browser, Textpad
  • The number of computers required is 1 per student.
 
STANDARDS
 
Standards compiled from learning activities:
WV- West Virginia Content Standards and Objectives
• Subject : Science
• Grade or Course : Eighth Grade
• Standard : Standard 2: Science as Inquiry (SC.S.2)
Students will:
 Objective SC.8.2.2 : formulate conclusions through close observations, logical reasoning, objectivity, perseverance and integrity in data collection.
 Objective SC.8.2.3 : apply skepticism, careful methods, logical reasoning and creativity in investigating the observable universe.
 Objective SC.8.2.9 : use inferential reasoning to make logical conclusions from collected data.
• Standard : Standard 3: Unifying Themes (SC.S.3)
Students will:
 Objective SC.8.3.1 : compare and contrast the relationship between the parts of a system to the whole system (e.g., take apart or build mechanical, electrical, or biological systems).
• Standard : Standard 4: Science Subject Matter/Concepts (SC.S.4)
Students will:
 Objective SC.8.4.13 : determine the number of protons, neutrons and electrons and use information to draw a Bohr model of the atom.
• Grade or Course : Ninth Grade
• Standard : Standard 2: Science as Inquiry (SC.S.2)
Students will:
 Objective SC.9.2.6 : use appropriate technology solutions (e.g., computer, CBL, probe interfaces, software) to measure and collect data; interpret data; analyze and/or report data; interact with simulations; conduct research; and to present and communicate conclusions.
 Objective SC.9.2.7 : demonstrate science processes within a problem solving setting (e.g., observing, measuring, calculating, communicating, comparing, ordering, categorizing, classifying, relating, hypothesizing, predicting, inferring, considering alternatives and applying).
• Standard : Standard 4: Science Subject Matter/Concepts
Students will:
 Objective SC.9.4.11 : using the element’s position on the Periodic Table, predict physical and chemical properties.