Project - Element Inquiry



Learning Intentions

  1. To learn to provide proper references for scientific work.
  2. To learn to communicate scientific information accurately and clearly.

Description

In a group of 2, you will research a particular element of the periodic table, create a poster describing the element, and present your research to the class.

Try to avoid long paragraphs of text; some facts are easier to present in a table, chart, or drawing.

You will be expected to address 5 main items of information in your poster.


  1. Basic physical and chemical properties of the element
    Symbol, group, period, atomic number, atomic mass, number of protons/neutrons/electrons, ionic charge, boiling point, melting point, state at room temperature (20 °C), metal/non-metal, etc.
  2. The discovery and naming of the element
  3. The effect of the element on humans (biologically)
  4. The sources and uses of the element – try to have one or two surprising facts about the element
  5. APA style bibliography - this can be a separate document from your poster.

After finishing the posters, everyone will present their posters to the class.

Assessment - Poster

  • Required parts
    • Physical/chemical properties
    • Discovery
    • Biological effects
    • Sources and uses
  • Bibliography: APA formatting, at least 3 sources
  • Scientific accuracy


Required Parts
Bibliography
Scientific Accuracy
1. Beginning Missing some
Many mistakes
Many mistakes
2. Developing -
A few mistakes
A few mistakes
3. Applying

4. Extending -
-
Unexpected Insights


Assessment - Presentation

  • Organization
    • Length is 2 to 3 minutes
    • All group members are involved (if a group member does not want to speak, they must be involved in some other way)
    • Smooth transitions between speakers
    • Looks like it has been rehearsed at least once
  • Audience engagement
    • Dynamic voices - no talking in a monotone
    • Information is provided in a way that involves and interests the audience

Organization
Engagement
1. Beginning Big mistakes
2. Developing A few problems
Boring
3. Applying
4. Extending Slick and Polished
Interesting