Task | Process | Evaluation | Conclusion | Credits

Introduction

Elements are the building blocks of our universe.  We encounter them every day in many different substances.  The food that we eat, the air that we breathe, and the materials that are used to build our schools and homes are just a few examples of these substances.  There are over 100 elements.  Is one element better than another?  It is your job to prove  to your fellow students that your element is THE BEST!

What makes an element THE BEST?  It could be:

• the one that has the most uses
• the most interesting element
• the one that is the most powerful
• the one that forms an important compound that is useful or dangerous to man  

Use your creativity.  You will be evaluated on your ability to persuade your classmates that your element is the best.  You will need to create a Web page that grabs their attention and to present a 3-5 minute oral presentation that convinces them of the superiority of your element.

Introduction |  Process | Evaluation | Conclusion | Credits

The Task

During the week of December 1, 2008, you will research your element and complete the workbook given to you.  The information in your workbook will serve as the basis for your brochure and your oral report about your element.  After completing your research by Friday, using Microsoft Word or FrontPage, you will design a Web page for your element during the week of December 8, 2008. 
Your Web page will consist of the following pages:

• Headline and subtitle
• History
• Properties
• Production/occurrence
• Uses/effects
• Glossary and Bibliography

Upon completion of your Web page, you will prepare a 3-5 minute presentation that explains your Web page, that explains why your element is the best, and that tells the most interesting thing you learned about your element.

Introduction | Task | Evaluation | Conclusion | Credits

The Process

First you will select an element from the jar.  The elements are:

You will research your element using at least 4 sources.  There must be at least 1 Web site, at least 1 database and at least 1 book from the list below.  You will record your information in the workbook provided by Mrs. Kimmelman and Mr. Woolbert.  Be sure to write down the bibliographic information for each Web site and book that you use!  Follow the examples in your booklet.

WEB SITES
WebElements
Chemical Elements.com
It's Elemental
Periodic Table of the Elements
Elements
ChemiCool Periodic Table
The Visual Elements Periodic Table  (patience...it will load)

DATABASES

suggested keyword search: "periodic table"

Science Reference Center (EBSCOHost)

Facts on File (click "reference shelf" tab)

BOOKS
Ref 546 Ele     Elements, 18v.
Ref 546 New    Chemical Elements, 3v. 
546 Sau         The Periodic Table, 12v.  

Upon completion of your research, you may begin to design your Website.  Use the guidelines given to you by Mrs. Kimmelman.  This is not a "cut and paste" project!  Use your research notes to complete your Web site. Your Web site should include the following: 

1. Headline and subtitle - name of element, symbol, atomic number, atomic mass, family group, a graphic, links to other pages on the Web site, your name
2. History - who discovered it with a brief biography; when was it discovered; when was it first used; what was  its original use; a graphic
3. Properties - include at least 5 physical properties and at least 2 chemical properties such as solid, liquid or gas at room temperature; color, taste or smell; melting point, boiling point; texture, hardness, density, luster, ability to conduct electricity; identify some of the compounds made from the element (does it bond easily with other substances / how does it react with other substances); a graphic
4. Production/occurrence - where is the element found (occurrence in nature); identify the name of the ore in which this element is found; how is the ore mined or collected - give a detailed explanation of this process; a graphic
5. Uses/effects - practical uses today (commercial, military, medical, scientific, etc.); a graphic; effects (positive or negative effects on plants, animals, humans, the environment) 
6. Glossary and bibliography - list in alphabetical order and define at least 5 new scientific terms you encountered during your research; prepare a bibliography in MLA format of all the sources you used for your research

NOTE: Any graphics (except clip art) from the Internet must have the URL (Web address) under the picture!  You can use a small font under the picture so it does not distract from the graphic.

When you have completed designing your Web site, use the small color printer to print it. Your next job will be to prepare your 3-5 minute presentation of your Web site, which includes the most interesting thing you learned about the element and the reason(s) why your element is THE BEST.

Introduction | Task | Process |  Conclusion | Credits

Evaluation

Your work will be evaluated using the rubric for a Web page and the rubric for an oral presentation.  The brochure will be worth 80 points and the oral presentation will be worth 20 points for a total of 100 points.  Copies of these rubrics are in your booklet.

Introduction | Task | Process | Evaluation | Credits

Conclusion

After completing this activity you should be to identify, describe and distinguish the characteristics and properties of your element.  Using the periodic table, you should be able to identify your element and its symbol, atomic number, atomic mass, and family.  Finally, you should have developed a better understanding of the roles elements play in our daily living.

Introduction | Task | Process | Evaluation | Conclusion  

Credits & References