Periodic Table Design

By: Linda A. Head

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Introduction:

The Periodic Table of Elements is very complex.  The elements are not randomly assigned a location.  Their period number and column name tell us a great deal of information.  The location in the table indicates the exact number of protons and electrons, as well as the approximate mass, density, boiling point, and melting point.   We can also use an element's location to deduce the type of compounds it will form and how it would be found in nature.

Pretend that you are a scientist way back in history.   Today's Periodic Table has not been developed yet. Scientist all over the world are arguing about how the table should be organized.  You and your scientific team have just discovered a new element and as a result you want to design an element table that includes this new discovery.  You are sure that you will be able to revolutionize chemistry by designing the table to end all tables.  Yours will be the pinnacle work in the field.  Full off confidence and naiveté, you head of to do what no man (or woman) has done before.

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

The Task:

During the course of this assignment you will design your own periodic table. You will then have the oportunity to evaluate and modify this design based on modern theory.  Finally you will compare and contrast your table with the real Periodic Table of Elements in order to evaluate your work and better understand the organization of the modern table.

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Process:

    Part 1

1. In teams of two, pick an element from the periodic table.
2. Use one of the periodic table websites listed below to find out when your element was discovered.
3. Click here to find out what that date means to you.
4. Based on the information available at the time of discovery, (what we knew about the element and what other elements had been discovered) design a table of elements that makes sense to you.  Organize them based on physical or chemical properties that were available at that time.  There is no right answer.   You just need to be able to justify what you have done on a scientific basis. (For example, Organize by melting point, density or a combination of properties.)
5. Construct your table for class viewing. You can use paper, pencilsconstruction paper, or poster board for a simple design.   Or, you can use computer programs like word, power point, hypertext studio, or design a web page for a more sophisticated design.

    Part 2

1. Using the same elements as before, construct a new table based on all of the information available today.  In other words, decide if the premise you used to design your first table still holds true based on all of the information available to you today.  Be prepared to defend your actions.
2. Construct your new table for class viewing in the same manner as the first table.

    Part 3

1. Compare your second table to today's real periodic table.  Ask yourself the following questions:
   • How much does your table agree with today's table?
   • What is the same/different?
   • What is the reason for these differences?
   • Do you understand why today's table is the way that it is?
2. Be prepared to show your tables and discuss your answers to all of these questions during your 15 minute presentation.

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Resources:

Interactive periodic table sites:

http://www.chemicalelements.com/

http://www.shef.ac.uk/~chem/web-elements/

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Evaluation:

Because there is no right answer to the way you design your table, you will be evaluated on how well you can justify your means of organization.  There must be a scientific basis for your reasoning (25%).  In addition, your work should be well thought out and show real effort (25%).  The goal of the assignment is to gain insight into the development of the modern table and to add meaning to its structure.  Therefore, you will be required to demonstrate an understanding of today's table through comparison with your table (50%).  I will look for clarity of thought and idea, as well as, organization and follow through.

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Conclusion:

With the completion of this project should come the understanding of the organization behind the seamingly random placement of the elements in the Periodic Table.

Introduction | Task | Process | Resources | Evaluation | Conclusion

Created By: Linda A. Head               School: Lakeland High School

Subject: Chemistry           Grade: 11             Date: 9/28/99

N.Y.S Math, Science & Technology Standard #4

Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles,and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.

E-mail: lindah@bestweb.net

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