Discovering the Elements: Exploring the Building Blocks of Matter

Discovering the Elements: Exploring the Building Blocks of Matter

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to define an element and provide/identify samples.

What do you already know about elements, compounds, and mixtures?

Slide 1: Introduction

Elements, compounds, and mixtures are the basic building blocks of matter. Let's explore each of them!

Slide 2: Elements

Elements are pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances. They are represented by symbols. Example: Oxygen (O), Carbon (C).

Slide 3: Compounds

Compounds are substances made up of two or more elements chemically combined. They have their own unique properties. Example: Water (H2O), Carbon Dioxide (CO2).

Slide 4: Mixtures

Mixtures are made up of two or more substances physically combined. They can be separated through physical methods. Example: Saltwater, Air.

Slide 5: Elements, Compounds, or Mixtures?

In this interactive activity, you will be shown different substances. Identify if they are elements, compounds, or mixtures.

Slide 6: Review: Elements

Let's review what we have learned about elements. Elements are pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances. They are represented by symbols.

Slide 7: Review: Compounds

Let's review what we have learned about compounds. Compounds are substances made up of two or more elements chemically combined. They have their own unique properties.

Slide 8: Review: Mixtures

Let's review what we have learned about mixtures. Mixtures are made up of two or more substances physically combined. They can be separated through physical methods.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.