The Teaching Astrophysicist
Interdisciplinary Curriculum Developer and Educator with a background in Astrophysics and a flair for great no-nonsense resources based on classroom experience.
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Interdisciplinary Curriculum Developer and Educator with a background in Astrophysics and a flair for great no-nonsense resources based on classroom experience.
Chemistry
Bundle
Science Stories Set of 10 | 850L 1050L 1200L | Famous Scientists & Inventors
Learning about historical scientists and inventors helps middle and high school students see how discoveries unfold over time, cultivating an appreciation for the curiosity and resilience that drive scientific progress. By reading stories at multiple Lexile levels - such as those about Nikola Tesla, Gregor Mendel, Charles Darwin, Marie Curie and more - teachers can ensure that students of varying reading abilities remain engaged and can grasp complex ideas. These narratives bring science to life by connecting abstract concepts with real people’s struggles and triumphs, illustrating that great achievements often emerge from persistence and creative thinking. Ultimately, this layered approach to storytelling supports diverse learners, sparks deeper interest, and fosters a sense of wonder about the continual evolution of human knowledge.
Each story covers the basics in a good amount of relevant details and the story is available in 3 Lexile levels (850L, 1050L & 1200L) great for a variety of young readers and it engages them to learn about science through a story rather than yet another YouTube video, but something a bit different and enjoyable for students!
Learning through a concise, engaging story about a scientists and / or inventor appeals to middle school science & high school students by weaving scientific facts into a narrative that sparks curiosity. This storytelling approach helps them visualize abstract concepts in a more memorable and accessible way, encouraging deeper understanding. Moreover, relatable examples from these individuals inventions or discoveries can inspire learners to explore, question, and think critically about how they invented or discovered a great deal and learned and shared plenty that no other person had discovered or thought of before.
This science story provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. It can be used in a variety of ways as mentioned below! Each story includes at least 3 - 4 images to bring a bit more entertainment and engagement.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
You could ask them to summarize it.
Ask students to define key terms in their own words.
Can they connect the story to the modern world? What connections can they see?
How short can they make the story and retain coherence?
Can they make what if this concept or technology was not discovered? What would we lose?
Link to other activities or as a primer to engage with a related topic.
To increase scientific literacy in your class.
A weekly reading task.
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching.
It provides rapid and easy differentiation for different reading levels
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
10 x 3 - 5 pages story at Lexile level 850L
10 x 4 - 5 pages story at Lexile level 1050L
10 x 5 - 6 pages story at Lexile level 1200L
Bundle
The Periodic Table | Reading + Research + Critical Thinking + Worksheets Bundle
Learning about the periodic table and associated topics at the middle and high school levels is crucial because it builds a strong foundation in understanding chemistry basics and the complex patterns of molecules based on elements. Utilizing a science reading comprehension worksheet helps students break down the intricate details of the periodic table into manageable concepts, enhancing their ability to critically analyze and interpret data. Then using a research project with a supporting template engages students in hands-on inquiry, prompting them to construct and examine trends in the periodic table, analyze the structure, and draw connections to real-world scenarios. Further, using the periodic table and elements through a set of 15 worksheets with 2 levels of difficulty is a great way to engage this topic - the periodic table. Finally a complete critical thinking framework with various levels provides differentiation, support and a great way to teach critical thinking. This integrated approach not only strengthens their scientific literacy but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for more advanced studies in chemistry and the study of molecules. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning and teaching resource.
This periodic table research project template (webquest) provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can help your students learn all about periodic table. For digital, you can provide a Google doc copy for ease of submission or a Microsoft word version as well. In this periodic table research project template (webquest) with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. It gives a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
This periodic table research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
The set of resources are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
The periodic table science article provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. It is a periodic table article with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. I am very proud of this series of science articles and they are rich with information and wonder at the majesty of science. Each science article includes a fun fact(s) to add to the knowledge gained from this article. Formatted in an easy to read and digest manner, each paragraph is numbered to help with referencing and each question answer has a paragraph reference number to point to the specific information (where applicable).
THESE RESOURCES CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
For reviewing previously learned content
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
To increase scientific literacy in your class
A weekly reading / research task
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Periodic Table Science Research Project Template
7 page Google doc image - textboxes teacher version with supporting appendix items
3 page Google doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 page Word doc image - textboxes teacher version with supporting appendix items
3 page Word doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 page PDF teacher version with supporting appendix items
3 page PDF student version with space to fill in answers
1 page 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in all three - Google doc, Word doc and PDF form
Periodic Table Science Article
3 page Word doc image - textboxes teacher version with answers
2 page Word doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
3 page PDF teacher version with answers
2 page PDF student version without answers (but space left to do so)
3 page Google doc image - textboxes teacher version with answers
2 page Google doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill answers (text boxes)
Periodic Table Worksheet Set
2 x Family, Groups and Periods worksheets
2 x Protons & Neutrons worksheets
2 x Reactivity of Elements worksheets
2 x Element Symbols & Names worksheets
2 x Physical Properties worksheets
2 x Trends in the Periodic Table worksheets
1 x Fill in the Gaps Worksheet worksheet
2 x Summative Assessments for review and testing
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS PERIODIC TABLE CRITICAL THINKING FRAMEWORK:
4 page completed exemplar for the scaffold with why questions (including suggested key questions / problems to be explored)
3 page complete scaffold version in PDF, Microsoft Doc & Google Doc form + now with Editable Google Slides form that has why questions in addition to suggest 9 steps providing maximum support for learners about the periodic table
3 page ladder version in PDF, Microsoft Doc & Google Doc form that has the 9 steps for a complete exploration into the periodic table
2 page step-ladder version in PDF, Microsoft Doc & Google Doc form that has 6 steps for supportive foray into the periodic table
1 page step version in PDF, Microsoft Doc & Google Doc form that has 3 steps for an initial foray into the periodic table
3 page implementation guide to support how to use this critical thinking framework practically in the classroom
Please note: That the Doc versions are images with editable text boxes overlayed on top and this is the most effective way to keep the article sleek and well-designed and also that students cannot change things significantly.
2 Periodic Table Crossword Puzzles | Free Upper Elementary / Middle School Chem
These 2 free periodic table crossword puzzles are an engaging and valuable learning tool for upper elementary and middle school students. By combining the interactive nature of crossword games with fundamental chemistry concepts - such as elements, symbols, and atomic structure - these puzzles spark curiosity and deepen scientific knowledge. Students benefit from reinforcing their understanding of the periodic table in a fun, stress-free environment, promoting better retention and a positive attitude toward science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects. Furthermore, because it’s free and easily accessible, a periodic table crossword can be adapted to various curricula, making it an ideal resource for parents, teachers, and homeschooling families seeking creative ways to support students’ chemistry education. Overall, this hands-on approach not only helps learners absorb critical information about elements and their properties but also encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and a genuine enthusiasm for scientific exploration.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Great as part of an entire unit such as the Atoms, Isotopes & Periodic Table Complete Unit (for a really great price)
Use as an activity for early finishers
Could be a starting activity while students get settled
As part of a brain break in a long lesson
Good to help revise or teach scientific associated vocabulary on this topic
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
2 Crosswords in PDF, Google Docs & Microsoft Word formats
Atoms Isotopes & The Periodic Table Presentation Slides | Theory Middle School
Learning about atoms, isotopes, and the periodic table through an excellent and engaging presentation is crucial for sparking curiosity and deepening students’ scientific understanding. By visualizing and exploring the fundamental building blocks of matter, learners make tangible connections to the world around them—whether it’s understanding how isotopes influence the properties of elements or recognizing how the periodic table organizes chemical behavior. This kind of immersive, well-structured learning experience not only sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also lays a foundation for more complex scientific concepts they’ll encounter in later grades and in other companion resources. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning resource!
This set of atoms, isotopes & the periodic table presentation has 45 slides that are well made and sleek, professional & great for teaching. They cover atoms, isotopes, element notation, types of elements in the periodic table, representing atoms, metals, non-metals, metalloids and ions (cations & anions).
THESE ATOMS, ISOTOPES & THE PERIODIC TABLE PRESENTATION CAN BE USED MANY WAYS:
Give students a broad overview before diving into hands-on activities.
Assign the presentation for homework, letting students watch or read through it beforehand.
Have students write down key points from each slide in their science notebooks, adding their own summaries or diagrams to reinforce learning.
Pause the presentation at strategic points for group discussions on atomic notation, isotopes, or specific trends in the periodic table.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS ATOMS, ISOTOPES & THE PERIODIC TABLE PRESENTATION:
45 Slides that cover the following topics with useful, original visuals and prompts.
Atoms
Isotopes
Element notation
Types of elements in the periodic table
Representing atoms
Metals
Non-metals
Metalloids
Ions (Cations & Anions)
The slides are available in Google Slides, Powerpoint Presentation & PDF format.
WANT MORE AMAZING RESOURCES LIKE THIS ATOMS, ISOTOPES & THE PERIODIC TABLE PRESENTATION? MANY ARE AVAILABLE!
I am very proud of this atoms, isotopes & he periodic table presentation. They represent a great way to engage students and really hone in on atoms, isotopes & the periodic table as a practical tool to learn and support individuals in their science learning journey.
Atoms & Isotopes 2 Simulation Explorations Middle High School Chemistry Physics
Students should engage with simulation exploration scripts that delve into the nature of atoms, isotopes, and the natural abundance of isotopes because these interactive tools provide a dynamic and visual approach to understanding abstract scientific concepts. Simulations allow learners to manipulate atomic structures, compare isotopes, and observe how varying neutron numbers affect atomic mass and stability—something not easily achievable through static diagrams or textbook descriptions. By actively exploring these models, students build a deeper conceptual understanding, see real-world connections (such as radiocarbon dating or medical applications of isotopes), and develop critical thinking skills as they interpret data and patterns. These atoms & isotopes experiences make atomic theory more tangible, relevant, and engaging, fostering curiosity and scientific literacy. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning resource!
This set of atoms & isotopes set has 2 simulation explorations - 1 on atoms and 1 on isotopes are well made and sleek, professional & great for teaching. They cover atom stability, occurrence of isotopes in nature helping students learn the basics of atoms & isotopes broadly speaking in a better way than a simple book learning or video.
THESE ATOMS & ISOTOPES SIMULATION EXPLORATION SET CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
Great for topic review
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy skills on atoms & isotopes in your class
An engaging digital, hands-on way to learn
To inspire students to learn more about the periodic table, elements & isotopes
Independent work at own pace, as a class or in small groups to learn this topic.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS ATOMS & ISOTOPES SIMULATION EXPLORATION SET:
1 - Atom exploration simulation in Google Doc Textbox-Image Version, Google Slides Editable Version, PDF Print Version - 2 pages & answer version included.
1 - Isotopes exploration simulation in Google Doc Textbox-Image Version, Google Slides Editable Version, PDF Print Version - 2 pages & answer version included.
All of these are available in PDF, Google Slides, Google Doc and Microsoft Doc format, except the answers which are included in the PDF Master file (20 pages in total in all formats).
WANT MORE AMAZING RESOURCES LIKE THESE ATOMS & ISOTOPES SIMULATION EXPLORATIONS? MANY ARE AVAILABLE!
I am very proud of this set of atoms & isotopes simulation explorations. They represent a great way to engage students and really hone in on atoms, isotopes & the periodic table as a practical tool to learn and support individuals in their science learning journey.
The Periodic Table Hexagonal Thinking Activity | Middle School Science Revision
Hexagonal thinking is a highly interactive and student-centered approach that can deepen middle school learners’ understanding of the periodic table and related scientific concepts. By arranging and rearranging labeled hexagons, students make and debate meaningful connections between different elements, chemical properties, and discoveries related to the periodic table. This hands-on, puzzle-like method engages learners in active discussion, prompting them to justify their thinking using evidence from texts or prior knowledge. Because each hexagon can connect to up to six others, students must carefully consider multiple perspectives, ultimately forming an interlocking web of ideas that reveals how the periodic table’s concepts link to one another and to the broader world of science.
For the full available set of Teaching Resources from The Teaching Astrophysicist - Please Click Here
During this process, each student plays a role - some more focused on carefully placing the hexagons, some on offering logical reasoning, and others on questioning or challenging connections. This inclusive dynamic ensures that various learning styles are supported, while the visible, tactile nature of the activity keeps students more focused and motivated than traditional note-taking. By the end, students not only produce a visual representation of how key ideas overlap and reinforce each other, but they also gain deeper insights into why scientific knowledge - like the arrangement of elements in the periodic table - is fundamentally interconnected.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Ensure good revision through an amazing collaborative tool
Make sure students are learning scientific language and terms
Check engagement with this as a formative assessment
Improve their ability to make and explain relevant connections on this topic
Can help provide a way to focus learning throughout a whole unit
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
5 page digital & editable Google Slides version including 1 page introduction
3 page print PDF version including 1 page introduction
Making The Periodic Table | Science Story | Dmitri Mendeleev 850L 1050L 1200L
This story is about Dmitri Mendeleev and his effective discovery and development of the first modern periodic table. The story is available in 3 Lexile levels (850L, 1050L & 1200L) great for a variety of young readers and it engages them to learn about science through a story rather than yet another YouTube video, but something a bit different and enjoyable for students!
Learning through a short, engaging story about Dmitri Mendeleev captivates middle schoolers’ imaginations while conveying key scientific concepts in a memorable way. By presenting chemistry in a narrative format, students can more easily connect with the subject matter, retaining details about the periodic table’s origins and the scientific process. This storytelling approach also encourages curiosity, highlights the importance of asking questions, and shows students how real-world discoveries develop—helping them remember why science matters in everyday life.
This science story provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. It can be used in a variety of ways as mentioned below! Each story includes at least 3 - 4 images to bring a bit more entertainment and engagement.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
You could ask them to summarize it.
Ask students to define key terms in their own words.
Can they connect the story to the modern world? What connections can they see?
How short can they make the story and retain coherence?
Can they make what if this concept or technology was not discovered? What would we lose?
Link to other activities or as a primer to engage with a related topic.
To increase scientific literacy in your class.
A weekly reading task.
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching.
It provides rapid and easy differentiation for different reading levels.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
3 to 4 page story at Lexile level 850L
3 to 4 page story at Lexile level 1050L
3 to 4 page story at Lexile level 1200L
Free Protons, Neutrons & Electrons 4 Worksheet Set | Middle School Science
Learning about protons, neutrons, and electrons, as well as isotopes and electric charge, is crucial for middle school students because it lays the groundwork for understanding how all matter is built and behaves. When students grasp that every substance - from water to metal to the air we breathe - is made up of these tiny particles, they develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Knowing that changing the numbers of these particles can alter an atom’s mass, transform it into a different isotope, or even give it an electric charge helps students see the interconnectedness of chemistry, biology, and physics. This protons, neutrons & electrons knowledge not only sparks curiosity about how things work, but also provides a strong foundation for more advanced topics they will encounter later in their science education. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning resource!
This free set of protons, neutrons and electrons worksheet set has 4 worksheets along with some preliminary knowledge to introduce the topic and support your students. It provides a great revision, practice or learning tool for students to learn from.
THIS PROTONS, NEUTRONS & ELECTRONS WORKSHEET SET CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
Great for topic review
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy skills in your class
A daily practice task during this topic
To inspire students to learn more about the periodic table, elements and isotopes
Increasing difficulty in worksheets 1, 2, 3 and 4
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS PROTONS, NEUTRONS & ELECTRONS WORKSHEET SET:
Worksheet 1 - neutral atoms
Worksheet 2 - simple isotopes with different charges
Worksheet 3 - more complicated isotopes with different charges
Worksheet 4 - Open questions rather than grid layout
All of these are available in PDF, Google Doc and Microsoft Doc format, except the answers which are included in the PDF Master file (9 pages in total).
Please note: That the Google Doc and Microsoft Doc versions are images with editable text boxes overlayed on top and this is the most effective way to keep the article sleek and well-designed and also that students cannot change things significantly.
WANT MORE AMAZING ARTICLES LIKE THESE PROTONS, NEUTRONS & ELECTRONS WORKSHEETS? MANY ARE AVAILABLE!
I am very proud of this set of protons, neutrons and electrons worksheets. They represent a great way to engage students and really hone in on fundamental science as a practical tool to learn and support individual students in the real world.
The Periodic Table Atoms Isotopes 19 Worksheets | Middle / High School Chemistry
Understanding the periodic table, elements, and related topics is fundamental for middle and high school students because it lays the groundwork for more advanced scientific studies and real-world applications. By exploring these concepts through 19 thoughtfully designed worksheets including 2 summative assessments, learners gain a concrete grasp of atomic structures, chemical properties, and how elements interact. This not only improves their problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities but also helps them draw connections between science and everyday life - such as how various elements are used in technology, medicine, and environmental conservation. Moreover, scaffolded worksheets reinforce key vocabulary and foster incremental learning, making the transition to more complex chemistry topics seamless and engaging. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning resource!
This set of periodic table worksheet set has 19 worksheets of usually 2 levels of difficulty along with some preliminary knowledge to introduce the topic and support your students. In addition, students are challenged in each worksheet given some specific conditions they must follow. This includes literally 157 unique and individual questions (not including the fill-in-the-gaps worksheet).
THIS PERIODIC TABLE WORKSHEET SET CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
Great for topic review
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy skills in your class
A daily practice task during this topic
To inspire students to learn more about the periodic table and elements
Easy differentiation with the different levels available
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS PERIODIC TABLE WORKSHEET SET:
2 x Family, Groups and Periods worksheets
2 x Protons & Neutrons worksheets
2 x Reactivity of Elements worksheets
2 x Element Symbols & Names worksheets
2 x Physical Properties worksheets
2 x Trends in the Periodic Table worksheets
1 x Fill in the Gaps Worksheet worksheet
2 x Identify Isotopes Visuals
2 x Draw Isotopes Worksheets
2 x Summative Assessments for review and testing
All of these are available in PDF, Google Doc and Microsoft Doc format, except the answers which are included in the PDF Master file (43 pages in total).
Please note: That the Google Doc and Microsoft Doc versions are images with editable text boxes overlayed on top and this is the most effective way to keep the article sleek and well-designed and also that students cannot change things significantly.
WANT MORE AMAZING ARTICLES LIKE THESE PERIODIC TABLE WORKSHEETS? MANY ARE AVAILABLE!
I am very proud of this set of periodic table worksheets. They represent a great way to engage students and really hone in on the periodic table as a practical tool to learn and support individuals in their science learning journey.
Forces Science Review Game - Physics - 10th 11th Grade Test Prep - Top Trumps
Forces based Trumps (Top Trumps Style) Game that includes the 32 most common forms of forces and variations on them for our planet and in our universe. Perfect for teaching physics and middle school science in general. Adaptable, useful and down-right brilliant if I do say so myself. If you print and laminate them you will literally have them as a tool for life. For the small price it is honestly a bit of a steal and I am so happy to be offering them to you.
Every forces trumps card include a visual that shows a use for this force or a process where this force is involved. There is also always a fun fact (fact file) item that sometimes connects with the visual and sometimes extends beyond it to another use of that force or fact of interest on that force. They also have a back cover and when printed double-sided the cards should line up perfectly.
The cards are of a level that would suit middle and high school students helping to cover ideas of forces, variation of forces and the four fundamental forces on our planet and more too.
These trumps are well styled, they have the following categories:
Speed of Propagation
Range of Action
How Common is that force
The Technological importance of that force
Trumps Rating
The Trumps rating is included as a way of balancing the game more effectively for enjoyment. The forces covered are:
Gravitational Force
Normal Force
Static Friction
Kinetic Friction
Tension Force
Compression Force
Shear Force
Spring Elastic Force
Drag Force
Lift Force
Thrust Force
Pressure Force
Buoyant Force
Magnetic Force (Permanent Magnets)
Magnetic Force (Current carrying wires)
Electrostatic Force
Lorentz Force
van der Waals Force
Casimir Force
Strong Nuclear Force
Weak Nuclear Force
Tidal Force
Coriolis Force
Centripetal Force
Viscous Force
Rolling Resistance
Dielectric Force
Electron Degeneracy Pressure
Surface Tension
Cohesive Force
Acoustic Radiation
Radiation Pressure
The cards can be used in so many ways and these are discussed fully in the implementation notes, in summary here are some initial ideas:
The classic game of trumps (card versus cards)
Organizing games
SNAP (a classic and easy game)
Which force am I? To check student knowledge and learning
Giving students one force to research
and even more!
States of Matter | Chemistry Critical Thinking Framework 4 Level Scaffold
Learning about states of matter equips students with a foundation to understand a wide range of phenomena, from everyday experiences like water boiling on a stove to more advanced topics such as phase diagrams and thermal energy transfer. By examining how substances transition between solids, liquids, and gases, learners gain insight into the behavior of particles under different temperatures and pressures. This states of matter knowledge underpins many concepts in chemistry, physics, and environmental science, guiding explorations of climate patterns, industrial processes, and innovative technologies. Through these connections, students develop the critical thinking skills needed to explain real-world observations and to engage in more complex scientific investigations. After all, we can not and should not leave all the thinking to the chatbots! With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning and teaching resource.
A critical thinking framework focused on the states of matter brings this complex phenomena into clear, student-friendly steps. By guiding learners to identify questions, evaluate evidence, and compare multiple explanations, it transforms the study of the phenomenon of the states of matter into an engaging, inquiry-based experience. Students gain a deeper appreciation for science as they piece together how the states of matter is relevant in the real world. Rather than just memorizing facts, they actively practice scientific habits of mind - analyzing data, identifying gaps in knowledge, and reflecting on the learning process.
A dedicated framework also saves time and supports more robust learning outcomes. It provides a structured path for teachers to implement discussions, projects, or small-group investigations without having to create all the resources from scratch. Embedded prompts and example strategies help students build confidence in their ability to think like scientists, meaning you can focus on facilitating exploration rather than constantly reinventing lesson plans. Ultimately, investing in this streamlined approach helps elevate student engagement, fosters critical thinking skills, and brings the world of the periodic table in real life to students in the classroom.
THIS STATES OF MATTER CRITICAL THINKING FRAMEWORK CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
The Periodic Table | Chemistry Critical Thinking Framework 4 Level Scaffold
Using a structured critical thinking framework encourages deeper engagement with chemistry concepts and helps students make stronger connections across the periodic table. By breaking down scientific inquiries on the periodic table into clear, manageable steps, teachers can guide learners to analyze evidence, question assumptions, and articulate their thought processes. This approach fosters inquiry-based learning, addresses misconceptions more effectively, and prepares students to handle complex, real-world problems. Additionally, it promotes collaboration, allowing students to share diverse perspectives and refine each other’s reasoning. Overall, this periodic table critical thinking framework supports a more active and reflective learning environment, leading to improved understanding and long-term retention of key chemistry principles. After all, we can not and should not leave all the thinking to the chatbots! With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent learning and teaching resource.
A critical thinking framework focused on the periodic table brings this complex phenomena into clear, student-friendly steps. By guiding learners to identify questions, evaluate evidence, and compare multiple explanations, it transforms the study of the phenomenon of the periodic table into an engaging, inquiry-based experience. Students gain a deeper appreciation for science as they piece together how the periodic table is relevant in the real world. Rather than just memorizing facts, they actively practice scientific habits of mind - analyzing data, identifying gaps in knowledge, and reflecting on the learning process.
A dedicated framework also saves time and supports more robust learning outcomes. It provides a structured path for teachers to implement discussions, projects, or small-group investigations without having to create all the resources from scratch. Embedded prompts and example strategies help students build confidence in their ability to think like scientists, meaning you can focus on facilitating exploration rather than constantly reinventing lesson plans. Ultimately, investing in this streamlined approach helps elevate student engagement, fosters critical thinking skills, and brings the world of the periodic table in real life to students in the classroom.
Elements Science Review Game - Periodic Table - 8th Grade Test Prep - Top Trumps
Elements / Elemental based Trumps (Top Trumps Style) Game that includes the 32 most abundant elements on Earth. Perfect for teaching chemistry, earth science and middle school science in general. Adaptable, useful and down-right brilliant if I do say so myself. If you print and laminate them you will literally have them as a tool for life. For the small price it is honestly a bit of a steal and I am so happy to be offering them to you.
Every elements trumps card include a visual that shows a use for this element or a process where this element is involved. There is also always a fun fact (fact file) item that sometimes connects with the visual and sometimes extends beyond it to another use of that element or fact of interest on that element. They also have a back cover and when printed double-sided the cards should line up perfectly.
The cards are of a level that would suit middle and high school students helping to cover ideas of abundance, common elements on our planet and more too.
These trumps are well styled, they have the following categories:
Element number
Abundance
Melting point
Reactivity
Trumps Rating
The Trumps rating is included as a way of balancing the game more effectively for enjoyment. The elements covered are:
Oxygen
Silicon
Aluminum
Iron
Calcium
Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium
Titanium
Hydrogen
Phosphorus
Manganese
Fluorine
Barium
Strontium
Sulfur
Carbon
Chlorine
Zirconium
Vanadium
Chromium
Nickel
Rubidium
Zinc
Copper
Nitrogen
Lithium
Cesium
Gallium
Scandium
Lead
Thorium
The cards can be used in so many ways and these are discussed fully in the implementation notes, in summary here are some initial ideas:
The classic game of trumps (card versus cards)
Organizing games
SNAP (a classic and easy game)
Which element am I? To check student knowledge and learning
Giving students one element to research
and even more!
Science Reading Anchor Charts | Graphic Organizer Main Idea and Key Details
These Science Reading Anchor Charts are an incredible teacher resource providing a science teacher with an excellent method of getting students to reflect on and engage further with science-based texts, specifically targeting scientific vocabulary, ways of thinking and science related ideas. In reality, they are more than anchor charts alone, they could be graphic organizers, notebook fillers, posters for the classroom and even more. With this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent science learning resource!
These 25 science reading anchor charts provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can help your students learn all about scientific reading. It helps build different thinking routines and reinforces aims and learning moments from science based texts. For digital, you can provide a Google doc copy for ease of submission or a Microsoft word version as well.
The graphic organizers / science reading reflection pages are applicable to a wide variety of ages too and could be used for upper elementary, middle school and even high school students such is their flexibility, but also clear structure to support science reading. They cover plenty of reading related standards and this pack also has an exemplar set to help how use could look in your classroom, though of course you can go beyond the initial exemplars alone too!
THIS SCIENCE READING ANCHOR CHARTS CAN BE USED SO MANY WAYS:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy in your class
Reinforce ideas in a given text in a specific way
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast
To provide possible choice on how to re-engage with a text
Give a selection of these anchor charts to get students thinking about a specific text or texts in different ways
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS SCIENCE READING ANCHOR CHARTS PACK:
25 - 1 page Word doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill in answers (fillable boxes)
1 - 25 page Complete PDF version for printing
25 - 1 page Google doc image - textboxes student version with room to fill answers (fillable boxes)
1 - 25 page PDF exemplar set which relate to free science articles that show how the anchor charts can be used.
Please note: That the Doc (& Google Doc) versions are images with editable text boxes overlayed on top and this is the most effective way to keep the article sleek and well-designed and also that students cannot change things significantly.
WANT MORE AMAZING RESOURCES LIKE THIS SCIENCE READING ANCHOR CHARTS PACK? MANY ARE AVAILABLE!
I am very proud of this pack of science reading anchor charts. They are honestly some of my best work to date and provide a really incredible way to help students learn thinking routines and scientific literacy. They work well with my science articles which are already available and make a truly great and varied way to teach students.
Bundle
Advanced Chemistry Bundle | 6 Research Project Templates + 6 Articles | Digital
From chemical 3d printing to nanomaterials to smart materials. Even with cleaning chemistry, glow in the dark chemistry and bioplastics and green chemistry. This bundle of advanced chemistry topics provides a quite high level and extending science research project template set. It can be hard to truly access the challenging chemistry topics that challenge older students. With all this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent set of resources.
These research project templates provide the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
These science articles provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are articles with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. I am very proud of this series of science articles and they are rich with information and wonder at the majesty of science. Each science article includes a fun fact(s) to add to the knowledge gained from this article. Formatted in an easy to read and digest manner, each paragraph is numbered to help with referencing and each question answer has a paragraph reference number to point to the specific information (where applicable).
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Research Project Templates
6 - 7 page Word doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page Google doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page PDF teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page PDF student version with space to fill in answers
1 page 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Word doc and PDF form
Science Article
6 - 3 page Word doc teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 3 page Google doc teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 3 page PDF teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page PDF student version without answers (but space left to do so)
Bundle
Advanced Chemistry Bundle | 6 Research Project Template Set | Digital + Print
From chemical 3d printing to nanomaterials to smart materials. Even with cleaning chemistry, glow in the dark chemistry and bioplastics and green chemistry. This bundle of advanced chemistry topics provides a quite high level and extending science research project template set. It can be hard to truly access the challenging chemistry topics that challenge older students. With all this in mind, let’s engage with this excellent set of resources.
These research project templates provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resources that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
6 - 7 page Word doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Word doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page Google doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Google doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page PDF teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page PDF student versions with space to fill in answers
1 page - 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Google doc and PDF form
Bundle
Sustainability & Environment Bundle | 6 Research Project Templates + 6 Articles
Sustainability and environment are growing topics that are critical for students to learn about, they go hand in hand with chemistry. From fertilizer, to the colours of nature, bioplastics, green chemistry and so much more are all available in this bundle to support learning. These science research project templates are a great framework to support student research and learning. This helps students learning the key areas of chemistry, this fascinating area could use a bit of teaching and learning coverage, such as you get with this bundle!
These research project templates provide the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
These science articles provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are articles with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. I am very proud of this series of science articles and they are rich with information and wonder at the majesty of science. Each science article includes a fun fact(s) to add to the knowledge gained from this article. Formatted in an easy to read and digest manner, each paragraph is numbered to help with referencing and each question answer has a paragraph reference number to point to the specific information (where applicable).
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Research Project Templates
6 - 7 page Word doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page Google doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page PDF teacher version with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page PDF student version with space to fill in answers
1 page 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Word doc and PDF form
Science Article
6 - 3 page Word doc teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 3 page Google doc teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 3 page PDF teacher version with answers
6 - 2 page PDF student version without answers (but space left to do so)
Bundle
Sustainability & Environment | 6 Research Project Template Set | Digital + Print
Sustainability and environment are growing topics that are critical for students to learn about, they go hand in hand with chemistry. From fertilizer, to the colours of nature, bioplastics, green chemistry and so much more are all available in this bundle to support learning. These science research project templates are a great framework to support student research and learning.
These research project templates provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resources that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
6 - 7 page Word doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Word doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page Google doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page Google doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
6 - 7 page PDF teacher versions with supporting appendix items
6 - 3 page PDF student versions with space to fill in answers
1 page - 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Google doc and PDF form
Bundle
Foundational Chemistry 7 Research Project Templates + 7 Articles Digital + Print
From the periodic table to key kinds of reactions to metals to the states of matter. Even covering redox reactions and types of chemical bonds. This helps students learning the key areas of chemistry, this fascinating area could use a bit of teaching and learning coverage, such as you get with this bundle!
These research project templates provide the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
These science articles provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resource that can supplement lessons. They are articles with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. I am very proud of this series of science articles and they are rich with information and wonder at the majesty of science. Each science article includes a fun fact(s) to add to the knowledge gained from this article. Formatted in an easy to read and digest manner, each paragraph is numbered to help with referencing and each question answer has a paragraph reference number to point to the specific information (where applicable).
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Research Project Templates
7 - 7 page Word doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 7 page Google doc teacher version with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 7 page PDF teacher version with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page PDF student version with space to fill in answers
1 page 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Word doc and PDF form
Science Article
7 - 3 page Word doc teacher version with answers
7 - 2 page Word doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 3 page Google doc teacher version with answers
7 - 2 page Google doc student version with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 3 page PDF teacher version with answers
7 - 2 page PDF student version without answers (but space left to do so)
Bundle
Foundational Chemistry Bundle | 7 Research Project Templates Printable + Digital
From the periodic table to key kinds of reactions to metals to the states of matter. This helps students learning the key areas of chemistry, this fascinating area could use a bit of teaching and learning coverage, such as you get with this bundle!
These research project templates provides the perfect grab and go, print and provide resources that can supplement lessons. They are project templates with questions to check comprehension and inspire scientific thinking. They give a rich and supportive framework that can be tweaked as needed for students to support differentiation.
Each research project template includes:
Space for a one paragraph summary (that links to the 2 page science article also available on this topic - but does not have to).
Students should produce a mathematical connection, an engineering / technology connection, 2 interesting facts / stats.
5 glossary terms they should fill in with their own words (which also links to the science article also available)
3 thought provoking questions (ie: critical thinking questions) they must answer.
Finally, each template has 3 alternative thought provoking questions for younger students and 3 other alternative harder questions to extend high flying or older students. Giving you a total of 9 possible thought provoking questions that could be used with students to enhance their research and critical thinking.
Further, I have added a 1 page - 20 point rubric to be used for either self-assessment or teacher assessment as you deem fit. I hope it helps support the learning even further!
These templates are some of my best work and I am proud to share it with you.
WHY / WHEN TO USE:
Useful for substitute (sub) teaching
To extend students
To increase scientific literacy and research skills in your class
Great as a lesson filler when class goes too fast and you need a long running task
To inspire students on a particular topic
As a scaffold to support students who need support on research skills and can use a framework
To enhance critical thinking when doing research and making a relevant and interesting output
Give a selection of these research project templates for students to choose from
To enhance students ability to express ideas and synthesis knowledge
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
7 - 7 page Word doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page Word doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 7 page Google doc teacher versions with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page Google doc student versions with room to fill in answers (text boxes)
7 - 7 page PDF teacher versions with supporting appendix items
7 - 3 page PDF student versions with space to fill in answers
1 page - 20 point rubric for self or teacher assessment in both Google doc and PDF form