Lesson 6 & 7: Trends in the Periodic Table

Learning Goals:
- Students will use appropriate terminology related to periodic trends including: atomic radius, effective nuclear charge, electronegativity, ionization energy and electron affinity (B2.1)
- Students will analyze properties of elements to identify trends in the periodic table (B2.2)
- Students will explain how patterns in electron arrangement and forces result in periodic trends (B3.3)
Hook: Have students create a Predict-Explain-Observe-Explain (PEOE) chart for the periodic table trends and have them predict the trends. This will allow students to begin thinking about the concepts using their prior knowledge and will help to correct misconceptions they may have.

Figure B.19: PEOE Sample

Content:
- Students will be given computer lab time to work with an online Interactive Periodic Table called Periodic Table Live!
- They will be given worksheets on the various trends and will be required to fill them in by using Periodic Table Live!

Figure B.20: Periodic Table Live!

Consolidation:
- Have students complete the Observe-Explain portion of the PEOE chart they created the day before. This will help students address their own misconceptions
- Have a discussion with the class about the different periodic trends to probe for understanding and any remaining misconceptions or confusion the students may have after the interactive investigation.
  - Some probing questions to consider:
    - What are the general periodic table trends for atomic radius, electron affinity, electronegativity and ionization energy
    - Explain each of the trends
- The worksheets can be collected and assessed
- The following is a diagram to assist students in remembering general periodic table trends:

Figure B.21: Periodic Table Trends

Other Teaching Ideas

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