The People Periodic Table: A Framework for Engaging Introductory Chemistry Students

• Adam Hoffman ^[1] ; Mark Hennessy ^[2]
  1. [1] University of Dubuque

     University of Dubuque

     City of Dubuque, Estados Unidos

     
  2. [2] Hempstead High School, United States
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 95, Nº 2, 2018, págs. 281-285
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Understanding the organizational framework and predictive powers of the periodic table is paramount in preparing students for success in chemistry. An interactive classroom activity was developed to engage students as they analyzed and evaluated the repeating trends in physical and chemical properties of elements displayed on the periodic table. This activity transforms the class into a “representative” periodic table, with each student portraying a unique element as they analyze their relation to their elemental neighbors, evaluate statements regarding their periodic peers, and explore of the power of periodicity present within the periodic table. Prior to this activity, the students correctly answered just over 10% of the questions asking them to evaluate periodic trends, while after the activity the students correctly answered over 50% of the questions covering the same content. Student feedback was positive and highlighted the interactive and engaging qualities of the activity. The People Periodic Table activity is flexible enough to be used in nearly any introductory chemistry class to enhance student engagement and learning with respect to the periodic table’s organization, predictive powers, and trends.