Periodic Table: Critical Thinking and Chemistry

What do calendars, music, card games and chocolate chip cookies have in common? They are the basis for a unit that lets students become actively engaged in discovering the arrangement of the periodic table. Layered exercises introduce the periodic table using familiar terms and analogies while simulating the struggle to create this cornerstone of science. Students explore these relationships as they practice their basic lab and recording skills through hands-on activities that emphasize higher-order creative thinking. Completion of the entire series helps students gain a more thorough comprehension of the periodic table pattern, and confidence in navigating through the information it contains.

The activities presented in this book approach the periodic table from the perspective of ongoing scientific exploration. Information is not presented, it is discovered through creative, hands-on, minds-on activities that encourage the application of higher-level thinking skills. Suggestions are also made on how to carry the analogies through in other science units.

This dynamic unit meets national science standards in seven teaching and content areas. Tested and evaluated over a six year period, The Periodic Table includes detailed teaching outlines, student worksheets, teacher keys and helpful appendices.

Grades 5-8