1.2 & 1.3: The Periodic Table of Elements

This week we wrap up atomic structure with the Periodic Table.

What are the different groups or families on the Periodic Table?
Why are those groups seperated in the ways they are?

Contract 20 will finish up our ceiling Periodic Table.

1.1: Atomic Structure

This week we begin our physical science unit with a look at the basic building materials of our universe: Elements.

A few questions:
What is the structure of an atom?
How does this structure influence the properties of the element?

...and your questions:
What are protons, neutrons, and electrons made of?
Can those subatomic particles change their shape?
How do we know that those particles are even there?
How do stars create elements?
Why do elements give off certain colors?
How do ions form?
Why do atoms combine with other atoms instead of staying as just one atom?
What keeps electrons from becoming attached to protons in the nucleus?

Challenge: Physicists try to describe our vast universe by studying the smallest parts of an atom in Quantum Physics. Try and explain the Quantum Theory. What is Quanta? Explain the String Theory.

We crossover with the unique element writing project for Language Arts. This week, show the structure of your element by building a model for Contract 19.