INFORMATION
STATION
Group members will read a passage then complete a task to help
increase science literacy and deepen their understanding of the
science concept. Either print multiple copies of the reading so the
students can read at their own pace or have one laminated copy at
the station so group members can take turns reading the passage
aloud.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
The Elements of Diving
Scuba diving is a water sport enjoyed both recreationally and professionally. Scuba diving allows
you to explore the ocean at a greater depth and for a longer period of time than just swimming or
snorkeling. Scuba divers carry a special tank with them which allows them to breathe under the water.
Their tank contains air, called compressed air, which allows them to explore freely.
The tanks that scuba divers wear when diving need to be filled
with certain types of air in order to ensure proper safety. The further
down scuba divers swim in the ocean, the greater the pressure is on
their bodies. The air pressure gets very heavy and can cause bodily
pain, especially in your ears. The increased pressure also affects how
we breathe. Divers take in more air as they dive deeper, which can
lead to more nitrogen absorbed in our body. The increase of nitrogen
in our bodies cause bubbles in our body which can “pop” as we come
up for air, leading to pain in our joints and other possibly fatal
injuries.
For both recreational and professional divers, they need to use
a specific type of gas in their tanks. Two common types of gases are
nitrox and heliox. Nitrox is a mixture of over three quarters nitrogen and one quarter oxygen. This has
more oxygen than what is in our normal air. This type of gas mixture is beneficial for recreational
divers because it allows for longer dive periods, and reduces some of the decompression sickness and
fatigue to your body. However, you can not go as deep with this mixture due to a problem called
oxygen toxicity, which is when you inhale oxygen in high concentrations for an extended period of
time. This condition can lead to seizures and drowning.
Heliox is another gas most commonly used by professionals who wish to explore even greater
depths of the sea. Helium, which is the main gas in this mixture, combined with oxygen, does not
contain the side effects of nitrogen, and can also help you breathe easier. However, heliox is expensive,
has a limited availability and can cause the diver to lose body heat up to six times faster than those
divers using nitrox, which can lead to hypothermia. Professional divers can use heated heliox in their
tanks or wear suits filled with hot water to prevent the hypothermia. With this type of gas, divers need
a second tank of air or nitrox for when they are exploring very shallow areas of the sea.
To date, less than five percent of the world’s oceans have been explored. With proper training
and equipment, you may one day dive yourself and help uncover the mysteries of our planet’s greatest
resource.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A
B
Identify some risks
of scuba diving in
regards to air?
Define oxygen
toxicity and explain
how it occurs in
scuba diving?
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
C
D
What is one major
drawback to using
heliox when scuba
diving?
To date,
approximately how
much of the ocean
has not been
explored?
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
OBSERVATION
STATION
Group members will have images, illustrations or actual samples at
this station that show applications or processes of the science topic.
Using what they’ve learned, they will need to apply their observation
skills to complete the questions attached to each. Print and laminate
provided pictures or illustrations for students to rotate.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A
Every living organism has isotopes of carbon. Two particular isotopes, carbon-12 and
carbon-14, are used to determine the age of organisms that may have died in the past.
When a living organism dies, it stops taking in new carbon. Carbon-14 will start to decay,
while carbon-12 remains constant.
1. How can carbon-12 and carbon-14 help archeologists discover
the age of this fossil?
2. A scientist discovers a meteorite. Can she use carbon dating to
identify the age? Explain your answer.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
B
1. What element is used to make this sign?
2. What periodic table group can this element be found in? What
are some properties of this group?
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
C
1. Recent Federal Drug Administration statements advise limiting
a person’s intake of tuna and other fish because of what
transitional element?
2. Explain why this element poses a potential risk.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
INVESTIGATION
STATION
Group members will work with one another to explore the concept
through hands-on activities so they may practice specific inquiry
process skills as they learn.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Table of Elements
Problem: How can you determine the arrangement of
elements based on mass and properties?
Materials:
•
•
•
•
glue stick
scissors
premade element cards
colored pencils/crayons
Procedure:
1. Cut out the premade element cards.
2. Arrange the element cards onto the blank table on your answer sheet in order of
increasing mass. Take care to place each card based on its properties. Leave gaps if
necessary.
3. When you feel the cards are arranged properly, glue them in place.
3. Answer the following questions in your lab notebook under your table.
Analyze and Conclude:
1. Observe the color pattern you see in your table. Explain the configuration in both the
periods (rows) and groups (columns).
2. Explain how you arranged your elements according to their mass what trends do
you see in both the periods and groups?
3. You’ve just discovered an element that is a magenta gas. Which group would you
expect it to be added to?
4. You have just discovered a new element, using the blank element card fill in the
missing information and glue it onto the final gap.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Orange
Light Blue
Bc
Red
Bn
Light Green
Solid/Liquid
53.7
Ductile Solid
106.8
Gas
69.5
Brittle Solid
113.0
Pink
Green
Navy Blue
Pale Yellow
Gas
102.2
Brittle Solid
82.3
Ductile Solid
67.2
Liquid
104.5
Dark Green
Crimson
Zt
Blue
Me
Brittle Solid
61.1
Gas
47.0
Ductile Solid
97.6
Orange
Light Blue
Bc
Red
Bn
Light Green
Solid/Liquid
53.7
Ductile Solid
106.8
Gas
69.5
Brittle Solid
113.0
Pink
Green
Navy Blue
Pale Yellow
Gas
102.2
Brittle Solid
82.3
Ductile Solid
67.2
Liquid
104.5
Dark Green
Crimson
Zt
Blue
Me
Brittle Solid
61.1
Gas
47.0
Ductile Solid
97.6
An
Fn
Uh
An
Fn
Uh
Ns
Ns
Pi
Pi
Cz
Sq
Cz
Sq
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
CALCULATION
STATION
Group members use their math skills to complete the station
challenge. Skills may include graphing, analyzing data, using
models, measurement, and calculating formulas or word problems.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Using the Periodic Table
The periodic table of elements was created by Dmitri Mendeleev, a Russian chemist searching
for a way to organize the elements. He discovered a way to arrange the elements by increasing
atomic number and by changes in physical and chemical properties.
Materials:
none
Procedure:
1. Complete the table by filling in the missing information. You may use a periodic table if
necessary.
Element
Name
Chemical
Symbol
Nickle
Atomic
Number
Number of
Neutrons
Number of
Protons
Atomic
Mass
28
30
28
58
5
4
9
34
79
47
108
Beryllium
Be
Selenium
Se
34
Ag
47
61
Neodymium
Nd
60
84
Tungsten
W
Copper
Cu
29
Sulfur
S
16
Californium
Cf
98
153
10
10
Neon
144
110
74
35
29
16
184
32
251
10
20
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
COMMUNICATION
STATION
There are three different options for this station: interviews, video,
or group essay. Depending on the option you choose, group members
will communicate what they know by answering questions in
creative ways.
Print and laminate questions and place them in envelope (if
appropriate). If you decide to run this station as an interview
station, this is a good place for you as the teacher to take the role of
the interviewer and ask the questions so you can get a quick
formative assessment to see if the students are understanding the
material.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A
B
Define the general
properties of metals
which make them
useful and versatile
materials.
Classify each of
these elements as a
metal, nonmetal, or
metalloid and gie
the full name of
each:
K, Si, Ba, and S
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
C
D
Explain how Dmitri
Mendeleev
organized the
periodic table of
elements. How did
Henry G.J. Moseley
improve it?
Explain why the
atomic mass of an
element is the
average atomic
mass?
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A
B
A: Metals are good
conductors of heat
and electricity,
typically solid at
room temperature.
They are malleable
and ductile.
A: K, potassium,
metal; Si, silicon,
metalloid; Ba,
barium, metal; S,
sulfur, non-metal
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
C
D
A: Mendeleev organized
the elements using
increasing atomic mass
and chemical and
physical properties.
Moseley arranged
elements based on atomic
number (number of
protons).
A: Elements have
several isotopes with
different number of
neutrons, and thus
different masses. The
average atomic mass is
the weighted average of
the masses of isotopes.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
CREATION
STATION
Group members will work together to solve a STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Math) challenge by creating models or
designs that demonstrate their understanding of the science topic
being taught. Students will place completed projects in a specified
location until the entire class is ready to test their designs.
Testing: I recommend setting aside time to test all projects as a class
and having each group record their data on their answer sheet and
on a class data table. This not only helps with class management, but
also lends itself to some friendly competition among your different
sections.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Bohr’s Models
Challenge: Create a Bohr’s model of an element
showing the proper number and placement of each
atomic structure.
Materials:
•
•
•
•
•
•
red paper circles
blue paper circles
yellow paper circles
glue sticks
large poster paper
markers
Model Requirements:
1. Each team will create a Bohr’s model of an atom that will be displayed in or
around the classroom.
2. Groups must choose an element from the envelope provided.
3. Draw a Bohr’s model of the element you chose on your answer sheet. Once
everyone in the group has determined the model is correct, use the materials to
create a poster-sized model.
3. All models must conform to each other, therefore use the following guidelines:
-
red paper circles – protons
blue paper circles – neutrons
yellow paper circles – electrons
diameter of the nucleus is 10 cm
each electron orbit (shell) is 10 cm from the nucleus and one another
4. On your poster paper, NEATLY write the name of your element and make of
key of how many protons, neutrons, and electrons the element has.
5. Display the poster in the area your teacher has identified.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
IMAGINATION
STATION
This station is to act as a closure activity. All students complete this
station at the same time, for example by you projecting the task on a
screen. This station makes science concepts relevant for students by
asking them to complete tasks that will bring about discussion and
critical thinking. To complete station, give students a few minutes to
complete task individually, then ask students to share out.
This station is not intended to be graded for correct or incorrect
answers, but instead be used as an approach to give students
awareness of the science topic in the world around them.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A Lightweight Idea
Directions: Use your imagination to answer the statement below.
IMAGINE you are at a bike race and notice that
the bike frames were made out of a light and
strong magnesium alloy.
If you had access to a super strong and lightweight
metal, what would you create with it?
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
STUDENT
ANSWER
SHEETS
Name _________________________________________________________ Date ___________
A1.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
A2. _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
B1.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
B2.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
C1.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
C2.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
A.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
B.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
C.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
D.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
1
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Name _________________________________________________________ Date ___________
Directions: Organize and glue elements below.
Analyze and Conclude
1. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
A1.
Name _________________________________________________________ Date ___________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
A2. _________________________________________________________________
B1.
B2.
C1.
C2.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Directions: Complete the table.
Element
Name
Chemical
Symbol
Nickle
Atomic
Number
Number of
Neutrons
Number of
Protons
Atomic
Mass
28
30
28
58
5
4
9
34
79
47
108
Beryllium
Be
Selenium
Se
34
Ag
47
61
Neodymium
Nd
60
84
Tungsten
W
Copper
Cu
29
Sulfur
S
16
Californium
Cf
98
153
10
10
Neon
144
110
74
35
29
16
3
184
32
251
10
20
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Name _________________________________________________________ Date ___________
Sketch Bohr’s model below:
Element: _________________________________
Protons: ____ Neutrons: ____ Electrons: ____
4
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Teacher Guide & Answer Key
INFORMATION STATION
A.
B.
C.
D.
Risks associated with diving include increased pressure on body
allowing more nitrogen in our body, which if not decompressed
properly cause bubbles that lead to pain, and other injuries or even
death.
Oxygen toxicity in when you inhale high concentrations of oxygen
for an extended period of time. This is caused by divers using
nitrox, a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen.
Helios causes divers to lose body heat up to six times faster than
normal. Could cause hypothermia if not wearing proper
equipment.
95% of the worlds oceans have yet to be explored.
http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/technology/diving/technical/technical.html
http://www.leisurepro.com/blog/scuba-guides/3-types-scuba-diving-air-mixes/
https://www.sciencenewsforstudents.org/article/pressure-scuba-diving
http://www.lakesidepress.com/pulmonary/books/scuba/sectionl.htm
OBSERVATION STATION
A1. Since carbon-14 decays – scientists can compare the amount of
carbon-14 to the amount of carbon-12 to determine the age of the
organism.
A2. Carbon dating only works on objects that were alive at one point.
The scientist would need to find another method to find the age of
the meteorite.
B1. Neon
B2. Found in the noble gases which exist as isolated atoms. They are
stable because their outer energy levels are full.
C1. Mercury
C2. Mercury is poisonous to both land and marine organisms. Over
time it accumulates in small fish that live in contaminated water,
which poisons tuna and other larger fish that consume them.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Teacher Guide & Answer Key
COMMUNICATION STATION
A. Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity, typically solid
at room temperature. They are malleable and ductile.
B. K, potassium, metal; Si, silicon, metalloid; Ba, barium, metal; S,
sulfur, non-metal
C. Mendeleev organized the elements using increasing atomic mass
and chemical and physical properties. Moseley arranged elements
based on atomic number (number of protons).
D. Mendeleev organized the elements using increasing atomic mass
and chemical and physical properties. Moseley arranged elements
based on atomic number (number of protons).
CREATION STATION
Note: Cut up a periodic table and use elements 1-15. Allow students to
use their periodic table to assist them.
Prepare ahead of time using dicut machine or craft punch (depending
on class size):
150 – 3 cm circles from red paper
150 – 3 cm circles from blue paper
Using a small hole punch:
150 – circles from yellow paper
Poster paper that will allow some groups to make 3 electron levels
from nucleus. (40 cm total from center of paper).
IMAGINATION STATION
Answers will vary, but students should understand that the future of
metal is always looking for stronger, lighter material. Airplanes,
armor suits, building supplies, etc.
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science
Teacher Guide & Answer Key
CALCULATION STATION
Element
Name
Chemical
Symbol
Atomic
Number
Number of
Neutrons
Number of
Protons
Atomic
Mass
Nickle
Ni
28
30
28
58
Beryllium
Be
5
5
4
9
Selenium
Se
34
45
34
79
Silver
Ag
47
61
47
108
Neodymium
Nd
60
84
60
144
Tungsten
W
74
110
74
184
Copper
Cu
29
35
29
64
Sulfur
S
16
16
16
32
Californium
Cf
98
153
98
251
Neon
Ne
10
10
10
20
INVESTIGATION STATION
1. The color wavelength decreases going across the row (period) and
the color becomes lighter moving down the column (group).
2. The mass of the elements increase both across the period and down
the groups.
3. A magenta gas would most likely be placed in Group 1
4. The newly discovered element will be a yellow liquid with a mass
between 70 and 80 grams.
Crimson
Orange
Dark Green
Navy Blue
Gas
47.0
Solid/Liquid
53.7
Brittle Solid
61.1
Ductile Solid
67.2
Zt
An
Uh
Pi
Red
Green
Ns
Me
Gas
69.5
Brittle Solid
82.3
Ductile Solid
97.6
Light Blue
Bn
Blue
Pink
Pale Yellow
Light Green
Fn
Sq
Cz
Bc
Gas
102.2
Liquid
104.5
Brittle Solid
113.0
Ductile Solid
106.8
©2017 Nitty Gritty Science