Have your students create their own periodic table by researching the first 20 elements and creating a chart that contains key information like their symbols, atomic numbers, atom diagrams, and mass. Students should also include a visualization of the use of the element.
It is important to remind them that if the symbol for an element has two letters, then the first letter will be capitalized and the second will be lowercase. For example, the symbol for helium is He, not HE or he. The elements are arranged by order of atomic number (which is the number of protons and electrons), not the atomic mass.
This is a great activity to check concept understanding at the end of teaching the elements and periodic table. Alternatively, have your students complete this activity at the start of the topic and use the resource they made as a personalized study guide. You can make this less challenging for students by giving them more information at the start or by asking them to include less information. For example, students could just include the symbol and the atomic number. To stretch your more advanced students, get them to research properties and uses for each of the first 20 elements. They could then include this information on their storyboards.
Please note in this activity, we have used the atomic mass of the most abundant isotope for each element. You may find that the average atomic mass is listed on some periodic tables.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a chart detailing key information about the first 20 elements.
Boost student motivation by turning your periodic table lesson into an interactive scavenger hunt. Students will search for real-life items or images that represent each of the first 20 elements, connecting classroom learning with the world around them.
Set expectations by reviewing safety, boundaries, and what counts as a valid item or image. Clarify if digital images, drawings, or found objects are allowed, and outline how students should document their findings.
Divide the first 20 elements among students or small groups to ensure each element is covered. Assigning roles keeps everyone engaged and prevents duplication.
Ask each student or group to show their item or image and briefly describe how it relates to the assigned element. This reinforces understanding and helps connect abstract concepts to real-world examples.
Lead a short class discussion on which elements were easiest or hardest to find and why those elements are important in daily life. Highlight key takeaways and celebrate student creativity.
The first 20 elements of the periodic table are: Hydrogen (H), Helium (He), Lithium (Li), Beryllium (Be), Boron (B), Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O), Fluorine (F), Neon (Ne), Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg), Aluminum (Al), Silicon (Si), Phosphorus (P), Sulfur (S), Chlorine (Cl), Argon (Ar), Potassium (K), and Calcium (Ca).
Guide students to research each element and make a chart with information such as symbol, atomic number, atomic mass, proton/neutron/electron counts, atom diagrams, and a visualization of the element’s use. This hands-on activity reinforces understanding and can be adjusted for different skill levels.
Include each element’s name, symbol, atomic number, atomic mass, number of protons, neutrons, electrons, electron arrangement, and a visualization (such as an image or example use).
For elements with two-letter symbols, the first letter is always uppercase and the second is lowercase. For example, Helium is written as He, not HE or he.
Use mnemonics, songs, or visual aids like colorful charts to help students memorize the order of the first 20 elements by their atomic number.