Content Benchmark P.8.A.2
Students know elements can be arranged in the periodic table which shows repeating patterns
that group elements with similar properties. E/S
Sample Test Questions
1st Item Specification: Understand that some elements can have similar properties (e.g.,
repeating patterns that group elements with similar properties).
Depth Of Knowledge Level 1
1. Each family of the periodic table has elements with chemical characteristics that are
A. exactly the same.
B. similar.
C. different.
D. exactly opposite.
2. Atoms with similar properties can be located in
A. different groups.
B. different periods.
C. the same group.
D. the same set rows.
Depth Of Knowledge Level 2
3. Use the periodic table to answer the following question.
(From: http://helios.augustana.edu/physics/periodic-table.html)
If an atom had the same properties as fluorine, it would probably be located in
A. column 1.
B. column 17.
C. period 1.
D. period 2.
4. Use the periodic table below to answer the following question.
(From: http://helios.augustana.edu/physics/periodic-table.html)
If an element is non-reactive and has a full valence level it would be located in column
A. 1
B. 8
C. 11
D. 18
2nd Item Specification: Predict properties of different elements based on their
arrangements in groups and periods on the periodic table.
Depth Of Knowledge Level 1
5. The horizontal rows in a periodic table are called
A. groups
B. structures
C. periods
D. set rows
6. The vertical columns on a periodic table are called
A. groups
B. structures
C. periods
D. set rows
Depth Of Knowledge Level 2
7. Use the periodic table below to answer the following question.
(From: http://helios.augustana.edu/physics/periodic-table.html)
Predict where a new element would be if it has 7 electrons in its valence level, is a non-metal and
reacts with alkali metals to form a salt.
A.
B.
C.
D.
the alkali family (group 1)
the carbon family (group 14)
the halogen family (group 17)
the noble gas group (group 18)
8. If an element reacts violently when placed in water, is a metal, and is very soft it would be
classified as belonging to
A. the alkali family (group 1)
B. the carbon family (group 14)
C. the halogen family (group 17)
D. the noble gas group (group 18)
9. If an element has two electrons in its valence level, is basic, a soft metal and is reactive, it
would most likely be classified as belonging to
A. the alkaline earth family (group 2)
B. the transition metal family (group 3-12)
C. the boron family (group 13)
D. the nitrogen family (group 15)
10. A family that shares the properties of non-reactivity, complete valence clouds and can be
found as gases in nature is
A. the alkali family (group 1)
B. the carbon family (group 14)
C. the halogen family (group 17)
D. the noble gas group (group 18)
Constructed Response P.8A.2
1. A teacher is giving a demonstration at the front of the classroom. The students are being asked
to identify which group an element would belong to based on its properties. A bowl of water sits
on the lab bench, along with a butter knife and the unidentified element. The teacher cuts the
element into very small pieces using a butter knife. She shows the class that the element is solid
and has a dull finish. She drops the small piece of the element into the bowl of water where it
briefly sizzles, and a flash of light appears.
A. Based on the demonstration, what family (group) do you think this element belongs
in?
B. Justify your answer using evidence from the demonstration.
Content Benchmark P.8.A.2
Students know elements can be arranged in the periodic table which shows repeating patterns
that group elements with similar properties. E/S
Answers to Sample Test Questions
1. B, DOK level 1
2. C, DOK level 1
3. B, DOK level 2
4. D, DOK level 2
5. C, DOK level 1
6. A, DOK level 1
7. C, DOK level 2
8. A, DOK level 2
9. A, DOK level 2
10. D, DOK level 2
Constructed Response 3-point Answer and Score Rubric:
3 points
Response addresses all parts of the question clearly and correctly.
The student should correctly identify that the element belongs to the
alkali metal family. The evidence from the narrative should include
that the element is highly reactive with water, is soft enough to be cut
with a butter knife, and is dull in appearance.
2 points
Response addresses all parts of the question and includes only minor
errors.
1 point
Response does not address all parts of the question.
0 points
Response is totally incorrect or no response provided.