Wouldn't it be great if children could actively discover why the periodic table looks like it does? They can find out lots about the layout of this ionic chart with the "Discovering the Periodic Table" learning material. It is newly updated with the names and symbols of all 118 chemical elements.

Each element has a card that shows its name, symbol, and atomic number on the front. On the back, there is a listing of its physical properties, chemical properties, and its uses or other information. The chemical properties are given in a simplified form, expressed as how many atoms of chlorine or hydrogen react with one atom of the element. 

First, children lay the cards out and reproduce the periodic table. Then they turn over the cards, selected groups at time and discover what properties those elements have in common. In the process, they will become more familiar with the periodic table. They will likely find intriguing elements that they want to research further.

Secondary students may wish to take on another challenge, that of reproducing the periodic table by reading only the backs of the cards. This activity is described in the accompanying booklet for teachers. 

This printed version includes one set of black and white cards with text on the back, one set of colored cards (blank on the back), and the teacher's booklet, which has lesson suggestions, further information, and lists of books and Internet sites for further learning.  There are nine cards per page, and they measure approximately 6.5 X 8.5 cm. after they are cut apart. Also available as a print-it-yourself file. 

The print-it-yourself version comes as files to print the element cards in black and white with the text on the back, the element cards in color (front side only, which has the name, symbol, and atomic number) and the teacher's booklet.