Periodic Table Game: Atoms, Molecules, Valency & Formula
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Periodic Table Game: Atoms, Molecules, Valency & Formula

Grade 9Chemistry1 days
★★★★★
5.0 (1 rating)
In this project, ninth-grade chemistry students design a game to teach elements, molecules, and their interactions using the periodic table and molecular formulas. They research elements, build molecular models, and develop game mechanics that reinforce learning objectives, incorporating playtesting and feedback to refine their game. The project culminates in a final game presentation and reflection on the design process and the game's effectiveness in teaching scientific concepts.
Periodic TableMolecular FormulasValencyGame DesignChemistryElementsMolecules
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design a fun and engaging game that teaches others about the elements, molecules, and their interactions using the periodic table and molecular formulas?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How can a game effectively teach scientific concepts?
  • What are the key components of an engaging and educational game?
  • How does the periodic table organize elements, and what information does it provide about their properties?
  • How do elements combine to form molecules, and what rules govern their interactions (valency)?
  • How can we represent molecules using molecular formulas, and what information do these formulas convey?
  • How can we incorporate the concepts of elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas into a game design?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will be able to explain the arrangement of elements in the periodic table.
  • Students will be able to describe the properties of elements based on their position in the periodic table.
  • Students will be able to define molecules and molecular formula.
  • Students will be able to explain how elements combine to form molecules.
  • Students will be able to understand and apply the concept of valency.
  • Students will be able to write molecular formulas for simple compounds.
  • Students will be able to design a game that effectively teaches scientific concepts related to elements, molecules, and their interactions.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

The Case of the Unidentified Compound

Present a 'crime scene' scenario where an unknown compound is discovered. Students, as forensic scientists, must analyze clues (properties, reactions) to identify the compound using their knowledge of elements, molecules, and valency, promoting critical thinking and application of scientific knowledge.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Element Spotlight: Periodic Table Profiles

Students research and create detailed profiles of assigned elements, focusing on their properties, position in the periodic table, and everyday uses. This activity reinforces understanding of the periodic table's organization and element characteristics.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Each student selects or is assigned an element from the periodic table.
2. Research the element's properties (physical and chemical), its location on the periodic table, its discovery, and its common uses.
3. Create a profile for the element including its symbol, atomic number, atomic mass, electron configuration, and a drawing or image representing the element or its uses.
4. Present the element profile to the class, highlighting key information and interesting facts.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed element profile presented as a poster, presentation, or digital document.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses learning goals related to explaining the arrangement of elements in the periodic table and describing element properties based on their position. It also introduces the basic information presented in the periodic table.
Activity 2

Molecular Modeling: Building Blocks of Compounds

Students use physical or digital models to construct molecules from different elements. This activity helps them visualize how elements combine and understand the concept of molecular formulas.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Introduce the concept of molecules and molecular formulas, explaining how elements combine in specific ratios.
2. Provide students with modeling kits (e.g., balls and sticks) or access to a digital modeling tool.
3. Assign students a set of simple molecules (e.g., H2O, CO2, NaCl).
4. Students build the assigned molecules using the modeling kits/tool, ensuring correct valency for each element.
5. Write the molecular formula for each molecule they build and explain what it represents.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityPhysical or digital models of assigned molecules, along with their corresponding molecular formulas and explanations.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers defining molecules and molecular formulas, explaining how elements combine to form molecules, and writing molecular formulas for simple compounds.
Activity 3

Game Design Blueprint: Elements and Molecules Edition

Students brainstorm game mechanics, rules, and components that will teach players about elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas. This activity sets the foundation for the game development process.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Brainstorm different types of games (board games, card games, video games) that could be used to teach about elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas.
2. Identify the key learning objectives for the game (e.g., identifying elements, understanding valency, writing molecular formulas).
3. Develop game mechanics that will engage players and reinforce these learning objectives (e.g., matching games, trivia, simulations).
4. Outline the rules of the game, ensuring they are clear, concise, and consistent with the learning objectives.
5. Design the components of the game (e.g., cards, board, tokens, digital interface).

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed game design blueprint outlining the game's title, objectives, mechanics, rules, and components.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsPrepares students to design a game that effectively teaches scientific concepts related to elements, molecules, and their interactions.
Activity 4

Game Development & Playtesting: Iterative Design

Students develop a prototype of their game and conduct playtesting sessions to gather feedback and refine their design. This iterative process ensures the game is both engaging and educational.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Develop a prototype of the game based on the game design blueprint.
2. Conduct playtesting sessions with classmates or other students.
3. Gather feedback from playtesters on the game's mechanics, rules, and educational value.
4. Analyze the feedback and identify areas for improvement.
5. Refine the game design and prototype based on the feedback received.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA playable game prototype that has been refined based on playtesting feedback.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity allows students to apply their knowledge and understanding from previous activities to design a game that effectively teaches scientific concepts.
Activity 5

Final Game Presentation & Reflection

Students present their final games to the class, explaining their design choices, the scientific concepts taught, and the feedback they received during playtesting. Students reflect on the learning process and the effectiveness of their game.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Prepare a presentation showcasing the final game and its design process.
2. Explain the game's mechanics, rules, and how it teaches about elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas.
3. Share the feedback received during playtesting and how it was used to improve the game.
4. Reflect on the learning process and the effectiveness of the game in teaching scientific concepts.
5. Present the game to the class and allow classmates to play and provide final feedback.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA final game presentation, including a demonstration of the game and a reflection on the design process and its effectiveness.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity serves as a summative assessment, demonstrating students' ability to apply their knowledge and understanding to design an educational game. It aligns with all learning goals and standards by requiring students to synthesize and apply their knowledge in a creative and engaging way.
Activity 6

Valency Challenge: Criss-Cross Method

Students practice determining the valency of different elements and use the criss-cross method to predict the molecular formulas of compounds. This activity reinforces understanding of valency and its role in forming chemical compounds.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Review the concept of valency and how it determines the combining capacity of elements.
2. Provide students with a list of elements and their valencies.
3. Introduce the criss-cross method for predicting molecular formulas.
4. Assign students pairs of elements and have them use the criss-cross method to determine the molecular formula of the compound they would form.
5. Students present their findings, explaining the valencies of the elements and the resulting molecular formula.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA worksheet or presentation showing the application of the criss-cross method to determine molecular formulas for various compounds.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsFocuses on understanding and applying the concept of valency and writing molecular formulas for simple compounds.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Periodic Table Game Design Rubric: Elements, Molecules, and Valency

Category 1

Scientific Accuracy

Accuracy and depth of understanding of chemical concepts related to elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas.
Criterion 1

Understanding of Elements and Periodic Table

Demonstrates understanding of elements, their properties, and organization in the periodic table.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a comprehensive and accurate understanding of elements, their properties, and their organization in the periodic table. Explains the significance of the periodic table's structure.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates a solid understanding of elements, their properties, and their organization in the periodic table. Can accurately describe the key features of the periodic table.

Developing
2 Points

Demonstrates a basic understanding of elements and their organization in the periodic table. Shows some inaccuracies or gaps in understanding.

Beginning
1 Points

Demonstrates a limited understanding of elements and their organization in the periodic table. Struggles to explain basic concepts.

Criterion 2

Molecules, Valency, and Molecular Formulas

Demonstrates understanding of how elements combine to form molecules, the concept of valency, and the ability to write correct molecular formulas.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a comprehensive and accurate understanding of molecules, valency, and molecular formulas. Can accurately predict and explain the formation of complex molecules.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates a solid understanding of molecules, valency, and molecular formulas. Can accurately write molecular formulas for simple compounds.

Developing
2 Points

Demonstrates a basic understanding of molecules, valency, and molecular formulas. Shows some difficulty in writing correct molecular formulas.

Beginning
1 Points

Demonstrates a limited understanding of molecules, valency, and molecular formulas. Struggles to grasp the basic concepts.

Category 2

Game Design and Engagement

Effectiveness of the game design in teaching scientific concepts and its ability to engage players.
Criterion 1

Educational Value

The extent to which the game effectively teaches the targeted scientific concepts.

Exemplary
4 Points

The game effectively and creatively teaches the targeted scientific concepts in a way that promotes deep understanding and application.

Proficient
3 Points

The game effectively teaches the targeted scientific concepts and reinforces learning.

Developing
2 Points

The game attempts to teach the targeted scientific concepts, but its effectiveness is limited.

Beginning
1 Points

The game does not effectively teach the targeted scientific concepts.

Criterion 2

Engagement and Fun Factor

The level of engagement and enjoyment the game provides to players.

Exemplary
4 Points

The game is highly engaging and enjoyable to play. It captivates players and motivates them to learn.

Proficient
3 Points

The game is engaging and enjoyable to play. It holds players' attention and encourages them to participate.

Developing
2 Points

The game is somewhat engaging, but may lack elements that would make it more enjoyable to play.

Beginning
1 Points

The game is not engaging and does not provide a fun or enjoyable experience for players.

Criterion 3

Game Mechanics and Rules

Clarity, consistency, and appropriateness of the game mechanics and rules.

Exemplary
4 Points

The game mechanics and rules are exceptionally clear, consistent, and well-suited to the learning objectives. The game is easy to learn and play.

Proficient
3 Points

The game mechanics and rules are clear, consistent, and appropriate for the learning objectives. The game is easy to understand and play.

Developing
2 Points

The game mechanics and rules are somewhat unclear or inconsistent. Some aspects of the game may be confusing to players.

Beginning
1 Points

The game mechanics and rules are unclear, inconsistent, and difficult to understand. The game is challenging to play.

Category 3

Design Process and Presentation

Quality of the game design process, prototype development, playtesting, and final presentation.
Criterion 1

Game Design Blueprint

Completeness and clarity of the game design blueprint, including objectives, mechanics, rules and components.

Exemplary
4 Points

The game design blueprint is exceptionally detailed, clear, and comprehensive, demonstrating careful planning and consideration of all game elements.

Proficient
3 Points

The game design blueprint is detailed, clear, and comprehensive, outlining the game's objectives, mechanics, rules, and components.

Developing
2 Points

The game design blueprint is somewhat incomplete or unclear, lacking detail in some areas.

Beginning
1 Points

The game design blueprint is incomplete, lacking essential information about the game's design.

Criterion 2

Playtesting and Feedback Incorporation

Effectiveness of playtesting sessions and how feedback was used to refine the game design.

Exemplary
4 Points

Playtesting was conducted thoroughly, and feedback was effectively used to refine the game design and improve its educational value and engagement.

Proficient
3 Points

Playtesting was conducted and feedback was used to refine the game design.

Developing
2 Points

Playtesting was conducted, but the feedback was not fully utilized to improve the game design.

Beginning
1 Points

Playtesting was not conducted, or feedback was not used to refine the game design.

Criterion 3

Final Game Presentation and Reflection

Clarity and organization of the final game presentation, and the depth of reflection on the design process and its effectiveness.

Exemplary
4 Points

The final game presentation is exceptionally clear, well-organized, and engaging. The reflection demonstrates a deep understanding of the design process and its effectiveness in teaching scientific concepts.

Proficient
3 Points

The final game presentation is clear, well-organized, and engaging. The reflection demonstrates a good understanding of the design process and its effectiveness.

Developing
2 Points

The final game presentation is somewhat unclear or disorganized. The reflection lacks depth and detail.

Beginning
1 Points

The final game presentation is unclear and disorganized. The reflection is minimal or missing.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

How effectively did your game teach the concepts of elements, molecules, valency, and molecular formulas? Explain with examples from your game's design.

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Question 2

What was the most challenging aspect of designing your game, and how did you overcome it?

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Question 3

If you could redesign one aspect of your game, what would it be and why?

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Required
Question 4

To what extent do you agree that game-based learning is effective for understanding scientific concepts like those covered in this project?

Scale
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Question 5

Which of the following elements of game design did you find most impactful in teaching scientific concepts?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Game mechanics
Rules
Visual design
Narrative
Playtesting feedback