The periodic table is an important educational tool for any science curriculum. It lists all the known elements and provides a wealth of information about each one, including its symbol, atomic number, atomic weight, and other essential properties. One element that is worth focusing on for K-12 educators is selenium (Se).
Se belongs to the non-metallic group of elements in the periodic table. It is a mineral that is essential for many living organisms in trace amounts, including humans. Se is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system, regulating thyroid hormones, and reducing inflammation in the body. On the other hand, Se can also be toxic in larger amounts, leading to severe health complications in humans and animals.
Teaching students about Se can provide them with a better understanding of the significance of the periodic table and how it relates to their everyday lives. Here are some ideas for activities and discussions to help K-12 educators teach students about Se.
Primary School Activities
For younger students, it’s important to help them grasp the basic concepts of the periodic table and Se. Some suitable activities for primary school students include:
1. Periodic table scavenger hunt – Give students a periodic table and ask them to find certain elements, including Se, by locating them on the table.
2. Se-related word search – Provide students with a word search that includes Se-related terms such as ‘mineral,’ ‘trace amounts,’ and ‘toxicity.’
3. Se-based crafts – For art projects, have young students create posters or drawings of Se that include images of its uses and significance.
Middle School Activities
Middle school students can better comprehend the complexity of Se and its significance in the periodic table. Some engaging activities for middle school students are:
1. Making Se compounds – A hands-on activity where students can make compounds containing Se and observe their properties.
2. The pros and cons of Se – A class discussion where students can debate the importance of Se in maintaining health versus its toxicity risks.
3. Se in the news – Ask students to search the latest news articles about Se and report back to the class on what they discovered.
High School Activities
As students reach high school, they can delve more deeply into the properties and uses of Se. Some activities that can challenge their knowledge and critical thinking skills are:
1. The Se industry – Students research and present the production, usage, and environmental impact of Se in various industries, such as electronics, agriculture, and medicine.
2. Se in the lab – An in-class laboratory activity where students conduct experiments that utilize Se or test its properties.
3. The future of Se – A class discussion on the potential future of Se, including its potential role in sustainable energy and evolving medical applications.
In conclusion, teaching students about Se on the periodic table can be a fun and educational experience for K-12 educators. By using hands-on activities, class discussions, and structured research projects, educators can help students understand the relationship between science, the periodic table, and everyday life. This foundational knowledge can set the groundwork for future science studies and critical thinking skills.
