ATOMS
AND
ELEMENTS HOMEWORK TASK
W HO M ADE THE P ERIODIC T ABLE ? L4­6
Chemists all around the world use the periodic table to help them in their work.
It is an invaluable tool for telling chemists about every element we know about.
So who came up with the periodic table? And how did they decide on its layout? And
what exactly can we use it for?
Research the following scientists to help you complete your project;
Johann Dobereiner
John Newlands
Stanislau Cannizzaro
Dimitri Mendeleyev
Include other scientists you feel have played an important role, and produce a timeline of
the periodic table’s development.
SECTION 1: RESEARCH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PERIODIC TABLE
· Use the Internet or books to find out about the scientists listed above.
· Describe the role each scientist played.
· Draw a timeline to show the developments that took place.
SECTION 2: WHY DOES THE PERIODIC TABLE LOOK THE WAY IT DOES?
· Find out why the periodic table has been set out the way it has.
· What information can the periodic table tell us?
· Has the periodic table always looked this way?
SECTION 3: THE FUTURE OF THE PERIODIC TABLE
· Do you think the periodic table will always look the same way?
· What changes may come about which would change the periodic table as we know it?
Use the project guidance sheet for tips on Internet safety, Research and Literacy
ATOMS
AND
ELEMENTS LEVELLING INFORMATION
W HO M ADE THE P ERIODIC T ABLE ?
LEVEL LADDER
To get
level
4
You might
Research: Use the Internet or books to select some simple information.
Make a simple timeline of the four scientists and include this
information:
Describe some advantages (and disadvantages) of the discovery of the
periodic table.
State some uses of the periodic table.
Identify the types of scientists that discovered and use the periodic table.
Use appropriate scientific words.
Use appropriate units.
5
Research: Use more than two resources.
Distinguish between opinion and scientific evidence, and use evidence
rather than opinion in your work.
Make a timeline of the four scientists and include this information:
Describe the different views of the scientists about how chemical
elements should be arranged.
Indicate how the periodic table has affected the work of chemists, medics
and chemical manufacturers.
Explain how the elements are arranged in the periodic table and why this
is useful.
6
Use appropriate scientific words, symbols and units.
Research: Use more than two resources.
Identify lack of balance in the presentation of information or evidence.
Make a detailed timeline of the four scientists and include this
information:
Describe why each of the scientists was trying to put the elements in an
order.
Explain how the discovery of the periodic table has affected society.
Consider the chemical industry or medicine.
Describe the other discoveries or research that scientists have been able
to make since the discovery of the periodic table.
Describe how aspects of science are applied in particular jobs or roles.
Use appropriate scientific words, symbols and units.