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Alexander Arrangement of Elements Student Interactive Set
The Student Interactive version of the AAE is especially useful as a hands-on project in the session(s) just prior to the lesson in your curriculum that normally introduces the periodic table.
Each set consists of a package of (12) hands-on periodic charts (with atomic numbers only) printed in black on white 11"x 17" index stock, diecut for separation and assembly into 3-D units. The surface will accept color and lettering for completion in a selection of formats by teacher or students.
Entering data in the boxes (printed with atomic numbers only) and be an individual or team effort, and can be done in a busy class or during several.
Working with parts of the printed sheet, the students learn of the blocks and the connections by holding them in their hands and doing the connections while building a periodic table of their very own. At the same time, as they see the flat table build into the three dimensions envisaged by the developer of the first periodic table, de Chancourtois, and realize that the flat table is a far more convenient form for all the variety of periodic tables they will be working with in the future, finding that the table isn't as ugly and intimidating as they may have supposed.
Each chart carries only the atomic number in each of the boxes, entry of other data as well as coloring to illustrate groupings is part of the participation activity of the student. Also, an instructor might use several of the Arrangements to illustrate some different types of element groupings.
The construction of the three-dimensional chart has been made relatively easy by design of the slots and tabs, by diecutting all that needs cutting, and providing instructions that are carefully tested and illustrated.
These are photos of the process of turning 2-D into 3-D by coloring, data entry, and assembly of the
Student Interactive Version of the Alexander Arrangement of Elements.
Coloring and entering data
While learning about the element groups, use markers to color each of the areas (not too dark). Then, while studying the elements themselves, with a sharper black marker, add the element symbols, atomic weights, and names as you learn about them.
Removing from the background
When all entries are complete, you have built a foundation for the study of chemistry. It could take some time. Now take the sheet apart carefully at the die cut scoring.
Saving the filler
Make sure you save the top part where the three drawings of the completed AAE are - this will act as a structural filler later.
Use these drawings to see what the AAE should look like when complete, and see the reverse side of this sheet to see the steps of the process.
Getting the tabs
Since we don't need the instructions any more, we remove the small tabs from that area after the rest is separated.
Putting in the curve
Making the parts take on a curve is easily done by rolling them into a tube and holding them that way with a rubber band or something for a while.
Integrating the Rare earths
Start assembling by attaching the Rare earths to the f-block - it is a little tricky. Make the connections very secure - tape or glue - so they don't come apart later.
Connecting the s-block to the d-block
Position the reactive metals to join the transition metals segment.
Using the tabs
Here is where the tabs (see step #4) come in handy, to hold parts together to make connection to other segments easier.
Connecting periods 2 & 3 to 3 & 4
Now the end of the second and third periods join the start of the following periods. Again, make the connections secure - tape or glue - so they don't come apart later.
The Hydrogen crown
The Hydrogen Crown wraps around to the start of the second period, inserts and fastens.
Preparing the filler
Now that the illustrations have served their purpose remove the part with three round segments to make a filler that will help the s & d-block segment assume a rounder shape.
Adding the filler
After folding the filler into an accordion, one tab goes out through a slot part way up the s- & d-block tube and the other through one closer to the bottom, insert and fasten.
The final product
And now the students each have a fine reference tool, keepsake, and conversation piece - the Alexander Arrangement of Elements!
Click to
the Student Interactive Alexander Arrangement of Elements
Making a Student Interactive Version of the Alexander Arrangement of Elements
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