Challenge: Subatomic Particles and Element Identity

Challenge: Subatomic Particles and Element Identity [∞]

1. Element Identity and Protons (20 Minutes)

• Mini-Lecture and Exploration:
  • Explain how the atomic number (number of protons) determines the element’s identity (e.g., 1 proton = hydrogen, 2 protons = helium).
  • Show examples of periodic table patterns.
• Task:
  • Give groups a set of cards with element names, atomic numbers, and proton counts.
  • Have them match the cards to their corresponding place on a blank periodic table.

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2. Understanding Isotopes (25 Minutes)

• Overview:
  • Discuss isotopes: atoms of the same element with different neutron counts (e.g., Carbon-12, Carbon-14).
  • Highlight isotope properties: stability vs. radioactivity, average atomic mass.
• Interactive Activity:
  • Use manipulatives (e.g., colored balls or counters) to build isotope models.
  • Groups are assigned specific elements (e.g., carbon, oxygen, hydrogen).
  • Build two isotopes of each element by varying the neutron count.
  • Label each model with its atomic number, mass number, and isotope notation (e.g., 614​C).

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3. Challenge Variations (Choose 1–2 per Group) (45 Minutes)

1. Stable vs. Unstable Isotopes:
   • Use data sheets or examples to predict if specific isotopes are stable or radioactive based on neutron-proton ratios.
2. Calculate Average Atomic Mass:
   • Given isotope abundances, calculate the average atomic mass of an element.
3. Build Ions:
   • Add/remove electrons to show how ions differ from neutral atoms (include charge notation).
4. Explore Real-World Isotopes:
   • Research uses of isotopes in medicine, dating fossils, or energy production.
   • Create a short presentation or poster on their findings.
5. Element Storyboard:
   • Create a storyboard for a chosen element, including its isotopes, ions, and uses in daily life.

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Assessment (10 Minutes)

• Diagram Labeling:
  • Label a diagram of an atom, identifying protons, neutrons, electrons, atomic number, and mass number.
• Isotope Worksheet:
  • Solve a short worksheet calculating mass numbers, identifying isotopes, and distinguishing between atoms, isotopes, and ions.

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10–15-Minute Landing

1. Reflection Questions (5–10 Minutes):
   • What did you learn about how small changes in an atom can result in big differences (e.g., isotopes, ions)?
   • How does this help you better understand the periodic table?
2. Wrap-Up (5 Minutes):
   • Share one interesting fact from today’s challenge (e.g., a real-world application of isotopes or an insight about subatomic particles).
   • Preview tomorrow’s topic: Electron Configuration and Energy Levels.

Materials

1. For the Overview of Element Identity and Protons

• Periodic Tables (Blank versions and labeled versions):
  • 5 blank periodic tables (1 per group).
  • 5 labeled periodic tables for reference.
• Element Cards:
  • A set of cards for matching (e.g., cards with element names, symbols, atomic numbers, and proton counts).
  • 1 set per group (5 total sets).

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2. For Understanding Isotopes

• Manipulatives for Building Isotopes:
  • Colored balls, beads, or counters:
    • Protons: One color (e.g., red). ~30 per group (~150 total).
    • Neutrons: A second color (e.g., blue). ~30 per group (~150 total).
    • Electrons: A third color (e.g., yellow). ~30 per group (~150 total).
  • Small connecting rods (optional, if using a kit).
• Isotope Labels:
  • Pre-made cards or templates to label isotope models (e.g., 612​C, 614​C).
  • 10–15 labels per group.

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3. Challenge Variations

• Stable vs. Unstable Isotopes:
  • Data sheets with neutron-proton ratios and stability information.
  • 5 copies (1 per group).
• Average Atomic Mass Calculation:
  • Worksheets with isotope abundance data for selected elements.
  • 30 copies (6 per group).
• Ion-Building Materials:
  • Manipulatives for adding/removing electrons (same as isotope materials).
  • Cards showing atomic configurations of neutral atoms.
• Research Supplies for Real-World Isotopes:
  • Laptops, tablets, or printouts of isotope applications.
  • At least 1 device or set of materials per group.

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4. For Diagram Labeling and Isotope Worksheet

• Worksheets:
  • Diagram labeling worksheets (atomic structure diagrams with blanks).
  • Isotope identification and mass number calculation worksheets.
  • 30 copies (6 per group).
• Pens, Pencils, and Erasers:
  • 1 set per student (30 total).

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5. General Classroom Tools

• Digital Devices:
  • At least 5 devices (1 per group) to access online simulations or research.
• Projector or Screen:
  • To show the launch video and any group presentations.
• Markers/Poster Paper (Optional):
  • For groups that prefer visual aids during isotope-building or presentations.

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