A new element

A new element

Pencil and paperOnline interactive
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
Further Resources
This task is about how to find out if something is a metal.

Question 1Change answer

Imagine you are a scientist who has discovered a new element. The element is an orange coloured solid. 
In the table below, write four tests you could try with the new element to see if it is a metal.
Write the results you would expect if it was a metal.
Test 1
Results which would show the element is a metal

Question 2Change answer

Test 2
Results which would show the element is a metal

Question 3Change answer

Test 3
Results which would show the element is a metal

Question 4Change answer

Test 4
Results which would show the element is a metal
Task administration: 
This task can be completed with pencil and paper or online.
Level:
5
Curriculum info: 
Science, Knowledge, Material World, Understanding about science, Material World
Keywords: 
properties, metals
Description of task: 
Students outline four tests they could do to find out if a newly described substance is a metal.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask.
 
Capability: Gather and interpret data
This resource provides opportunities to use their emerging science knowledge of investigation processes.​.
Science capabilities: 
Gather and interpret data
Answers/responses: 
  

Y10 (07/1999)
Examples of any 4 of:

Test

  • Does it conduct electricity?
  • Does it conduct heat?
  • Does it bend?
  • Is it shiny?
  • Does it react with acids?
  • Does it melt?
 Result

  • Yes
  • Yes
  • Yes
  • Yes
  • Yes/fizzes
  • Melts only at high temperature/does not melt easily
4 correct – very difficult

3 correct – very difficult

2 correct – difficult

1 correct – moderate