How can one easily classify metals, nonmetals, and metalloids? Pupils answer this question as they experiment with unknown substances and perform tests on conductivity, brittleness, and malleability to determine which unknown belongs in each category. They conclude with a class discussion to compare and contrast results.

Concepts

conductivity, luster, metals, non-metals, metalloids

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Have pupils conduct research and develop other ways to test whether a sample is a metal, nonmetal, or metalloid
• Show YouTube videos about metals, nonmetals, and metalloids in class to expand the activity

Classroom Considerations

• Ensure persenters wear safety glasses throughout the experiment
• The fourth in a series of seven related resources

Pros

• Hands-on application allows class members to remain engaged throughout experiment
• May be adapted to use as a demonstration, rather than collaborative learning, if needed

Cons

• None