Periodicity: Periodic Trends of Elements

   Contents

 Task

In this activity, high school chemistry students are provided with a table of values which they use to plot and draw graphs of the periodic trends in electronegativity, atomic radius and ionization energy of some elements in the periodic table. They then use the graphs to explain the periodic trends across the periods, down the groups and to predict the periodic trends of other elements in subsequent periods.

 GPS Addressed (click [+] to expand)

    Co-Requisite: Characteristics of Science

    Habits of Mind

    [-] SCSh3.Students will identify and investigate problems scientifically.
     

    c. Collect, organize and record appropriate data.
    d. Graphically compare and analyze data points and/or summary statistics.
    e. Develop reasonable conclusions based on data collected.
    f. Evaluate whether conclusions are reasonable by reviewing the process and checking against other available information.

    [-] SCSh4.Students will use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating scientific equipment and materials.
     

    a. Develop and use systematic procedures for recording and organizing information

    Nature of Science

    [-] SCSh7. Students will analyze how scientific knowledge is developed. Students recognize that:
     

    e. Testing, revising, and occasionally rejecting new and old theories never ends.

    Content

    [-] SC4. Students will use the organization of the Periodic Table to predict properties of elements.
     

    a. Use the Periodic Table to predict periodic trends including atomic radii, ionic radii,            ionization energy, and electronegativity of various elements.
    b. Compare and contrast trends in the chemical and physical properties of elements and             their placement on the Periodic Table.


 Video (duration: 18:53)

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Use these questions to guide your thinking about some of the important teacher ideas in the lesson featured in the video clip.

  1. How does Ms. Holt engage the students in the problem?
  2. What features of scientific inquiry are present in this particular classroom activity?
  3. Consider how Ms. Holt promotet standard safety practices.

 Classroom Materials / Lesson Outlines