Jonathan's Webquest of the Periodic Table

Introduction

Welcome to Jonathan's Webquest of the Periodic Table

On this quest, you will discover the patterns observed which lead to the model we now call the Periodic Table.

Task

On this quest you will watch a few video and learn about the history and development of the chart you now see in every chemistry classroom. This tool, though initially scary and intimidating, is actually a detailed and nuanced graph that can tell you lots about an element simply by its location on the map!

Yet it's far from a perfect model. Several people have proposed improvements on it, and by the end of your quest, you will have created your own model with modifications. Who knows; perhaps you'll succeed where others have not!

Process

HS-PS1-1.	Use the periodic table as a model to predict the relative properties of elements based on the patterns of electrons in the outermost energy level of atoms.

First, let's watch Hank Green introduce us to the first man who put these pieces together...

Next, we'll discover why it's so important for scientists to recognize patterns, with Bozeman Science

Now you heard Hank say that the table is far from perfect, and lots of people have tried to redesign it. Based on what you've learned about the elements, consider other ways to represent it. You may want to start with a cylinder, a screw or an origami crane. Be creative!

Now just for fun, let's watch some burning Hydrogen Bubbles.

Evaluation

Now that you have enjoyed these videos, know a bit about Demitri Mendeleev and the periodic table, and have made your own model, it's time to check in and see how much you've learned. Please write out 5 open ended questions that could determine the understanding your peers have on this topic. Remember to use action words like synthesize and create.

1) Describe the family (column) on the table

2) Name the major groups on the periodic tables and explain the traits of each.

3) Students will be asked to present and defend their new models to the class.