APS Science Curriculum Unit Planner
Grade Level/Subject
Grade 8 Physical Science-Unit 3
Stage 1: Desired Results
Enduring Understanding
Matter is composed of small particles called elements which we study and organize on the
periodic table.
Correlations
Unifying Understanding
PS 1, PS 2b, PS 4
VA SOL
NSES (grade level)
AAAS Atlas
Essential Questions
•
How is the history of the table an example of how scientific ideas change over time?
•
What makes something a metal or a non metal? What about the things in between?
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What determines the order of the elements on the modern table?
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How can we use the table as a tool to understand particles and how particles combine?
Knowledge and Skills
Students should know:
•
Who first organized the elements and how the organization has been modified over time
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The locations and of the metals, non-metals and metalloids on the table
•
The properties of metals, non-metals and metalloids
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How the modern table is organized
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What the numbers in the boxes on the table tell you about elements
Students should be able to:
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Define atomic mass, atomic number, metal, non-metal, metalloid, isotope, family, period,
chemical symbol, chemical formula
•
Properly write a chemical symbol and a chemical formula
•
Use the periodic table to predict properties of elements
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Describe what makes two isotopes of different elements different
Stage 2: Assessment Evidence
Prior Knowledge and Skills
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Knowledge of what the numbers mean on the periodic table
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Knowledge of the particles that make up an atom (to be used in later units too)
Formative Assessment
•
Mystery Mixture Elements
•
Periodic table coloring
Summative Assessment
•
Unit test on the periodic table
assignment
•
Periodic table warm-up
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Elements in the universe
Stage 3: Learning Plan
References to Adopted Materials
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Holt Physical Science CH 4 Sections 1 and 2, CH 12
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Concepts and Challenges in Physical Science Sections 5-9
Suggested Investigations
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FOSS Chemical Interactions-Investigation 2
Outdoor Education Applications
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Resources
Web Sites
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http://phet.colorado.edu/
Videos
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Chemistry a Volatile History
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World of Chemistry-The periodic table
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Bill Nye-Matter
United Streaming
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Field Trips
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Other
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McDougall Physical Science CH 5