Overview and Background: Unit: The Element Song

Nicole Gerstner : Cheney USD 268

Science : Science : Physical Science

Cheney High School : Grades 9 - 9 : day : Aug. - Sep.

Title:	The Element Song
Topics:	atomic structure, the elements
Time Frame:
Start Date:	-
Status:	Draft
Date Revised:

Summary:
This unit will look at the atomic structure of the elements.

Print Materials Needed:
Focus on Physical Science
Merrill, 1989

Resource Attachments:	http://www.cheney268.com/Science/Gerstner/Elements/ElementsUnit.htm
Internet Resource Links:

Stage 1: Identify Desired Results

State:	KS
Title:	Science
Standard(s):	2A:1 The student will understand the structure of the atom. 2A:2:1 Elements are substances that contain only one kind of atom. 2A:2:2 Elements are arranged according to increasing atomic number on the periodic table. 2A:2:3 The periodic table organizes elements according to similar physical and chemical properties by groups, periods, and categories.

Understandings:
user	Overarching Patterns permit predictions. Structure dictates form. Unit The structure of an element dictates its form. The properties and arrangement of elements in the periodic table is related to the atomic structure.

Essential Questions:
user	Overarching How does the structure influence the form? How do patterns allow predictions? Unit How do we know what makes up an atom when we can't see an actual atom? What is the relationship between structure and form? Why are the elements arranged in a certain way on the periodic chart.

Knowledge and Skills:

K
-Symbols are used to represent elements.
-Atoms consist of electrons, neutrons, and protons.
-The number of protons determines the atomic number.
-The electrons form energy levels.
-The mass number of an atom is the number of neutrons and protons.

S
-Name an element according to its symbol.
-Explain the components of electrons, neutrons, and protons.
-Identify certain elements from the atomic number.
-Explain the electron configuration of a given atom.
-Determine how many neutrons and protons are in a given atom.

Stage 2: Determine Acceptable Evidence

Assessment Summary:
Students will create a song which presents at least five characteristics of an element and how it relates to other elements. The five characteristics that must be included are atomic mass, period, family, everyday uses, and number of protons.

Task/Prompt: The Element Song

Type: Performance Task

Topics: Atomic Structure, The Elements

Summary:
Students will create a song which presents at least five characteristics of an element and how it relates to other elements. The five characteristics that must be included are atomic mass, family, period, everyday uses, and number of protons.

Student Directions:
You are a songwriter and must write a song about a particular element. You must include a minimum of 5 characteristics about that element in your song. You may
choose any song or tune to write words to as long as it's appropriate. If you choose you may perform your song for the class or recruit other students to help you perform. Your song should explain your element's role in the overall pattern of the groups, periods and categories of elements. It should be accurate and include all five characteristics.

Unattached Rubric(s)

Rubric: Element Song Rubric

Summary:
http://www.cheney268.com/Science/Gerstner/Elements/ElementSongRubric.htm

Other assessment evidence to be collected:
Selected Response/Short-answer test/quiz
	Elements Quiz Unit test addressing standards Discussion questions Worksheets

Stage 3: Plan Learning Experiences and Instruction

Learning Activities:

Start the unit with my own song presenting an element.

Provide students with overview of this unit. Provide handouts explaining requirements, deadlines, rubrics, and helpful hints. Post essential questions.

Lecture and notes on atomic structure and periodic table.

Lab activities on atomic structure.
(pg. 224) How do pencil models of atoms differ from real atoms?
(pg. 223) How can you predict an element's group and period?
(pg. 234) What are some properties of metals and nonmetals?

Problem solving activity (pg. 233 of textbook)

Using a chart, students will organize the information presented in the songs and take a quiz over that material.

Students will choose an element and a song or tune. Songs have to be appropriate. They will research the element and create a song that presents the 5 characteristics of the element and how it relates to other elements on the periodic chart.
Students will use peer evaluation to offer feedback.
Students will also check their progress against the project rubric.

Students will complete a self-evaluation of their work.