Compile a visually representative arrangement of the elements, akin to the classic periodic table, but using images instead.
The Science Learning Hub, a free and easy-to-use online resource, offers an engaging and educational experience for students to explore the world of chemistry. The activities are aligned with the "Communicating in science" substrand of the nature of science, providing opportunities for discussion about the different ways science knowledge can be communicated and the role images play in supporting science communication.
One of the standout activities is the creation of a photographic periodic table, which allows students to learn about the chemical elements in a hands-on and creative way. Students can create a photographic periodic table individually, as a group, or as a class. A Word file for creating a photographic periodic table is available for download, making the process simple and straightforward.
The photographic periodic table can be arranged in a template for exploration and discussion. For example, students can create photographic prints using light-sensitive silver halides such as silver chloride, silver bromide, and silver iodide, which relate directly to the element silver on the periodic table. This activity provides a direct chemistry-photography link for element-related learning, connecting photographic science to the element silver.
In addition to the photographic activities, the Science Learning Hub offers a variety of other engaging and interactive ways to learn about the periodic table of elements. Students can create a rap or poem about the chemical elements, familiarize themselves with the names and symbols of the chemical elements, and identify elements contained in some everyday objects.
The collection also includes resources such as articles about the first scientific discovery of an element in 1649 and its growth into the periodic table as we know it today. Two Periodic table of the elements with real images and pictures of objects containing each element are provided as useful links.
Moreover, the Science Learning Hub team has curated a collection of resources related to the periodic table of elements. The collection can be made part of a private collection by clicking on the copy icon, making it easy to organise and access the resources for future use.
The activities on the Science Learning Hub connect everyday objects to the elements they are made of, making the periodic table of elements more understandable for students. The collaboration with the New Zealand Association of Primary Science Educators ensures that the activities are educational, engaging, and aligned with best practices in science education.
Registration for the Science Learning Hub is easy and free, using email address or Google account. With a wealth of resources and activities available, the Science Learning Hub is an invaluable tool for teachers and students alike, providing a fun and interactive way to learn about the periodic table of elements.
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- By using the Science Learning Hub's resources, such as the photographic periodic table activity or composing a rap about the elements, students can engage in science education-and-self-development and enhance their learning experience in the world of chemistry.
- In addition to traditional learning methods, the Science Learning Hub offers science-based learning that incorporates creative activities like creating a photographic periodic table, which provides an accessible and fun approach to education and self-development in the field of science.
