Date: 1994

Grade Level(s): 6, 7

Subject(s):

• Science/Chemistry
• Science/Technology

MAJOR OBJECTIVES:

• To learn the periodic table
• To learn the importance of entering exact values (data)
• To use deductive reasoning

MATERIALS CHECKLIST:

• One or multiple computers
• Software: database
• Copies of the Periodic Table of Elements
• "Handbook of Chemistry" (Chemical Rubber Company)
• Teacher-prepared data file template
• Teacher-prepared "mystery game" student handouts

TIME REQUIRED: 4 class periods

ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES:

• Have the students take turns entering data into the database template for each element's name, symbol, atomic number, typical state (gas, liquid, solid), density, boiling point, melting point, and specific gravity.

• Distribute the mystery game handouts and have the students use the database to solve the mysteries. For example:

  (1) Prepare a set of first-person riddles, from the element's point of view, such as, "My atomic number is 1/2 that of Mercury. Who am I?" or "We are the only elements that are liquid. Who are we?"

  (2) Prepare a murder mystery with each student assigned to an element. One student (element) is the victim and another, the murderer. Have the game supply clues to solve the mystery, such as "The murderer's atomic number is below 36. His density is between 1 and 3, specific gravity between 1.5 and 2, melting point below 1000 degrees, and boiling point over 2000 degrees. Who Done It?" Include clues for the murderer, the victim, the weapon used, and the location of the murder.