Six years have passed since we first used this simple method of learning the first twelve elements of the Periodic Table. Our Atomic Cookies and Element Flashcards were a simple, enjoyable way to apply some of what we were learning about the elements a few years ago.
Since then, I’ve added some simple notebooking pages and game ideas for extending the use of those homemade element flashcards. Here’s a peek at the element flashcards template, along with an example for Hydrogen:
How do you fill it out? Well, let’s take a look:
What is the atomic number?
It is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which is also the number of electrons in a neutral atom.
For any element:
- Number of Protons = Atomic Number
- Number of Electrons = Number of Protons = Atomic Number
- Number of Neutrons = Atomic Mass – Atomic Number
Check out our favorite free Periodic Table of Elements here.
What is a cookie?
In this case, it’s a small flat or slightly raised cake with icing and hearts on top. Specifically, it’s a pre-packaged, Betty-Crocker type of cookie called “Pumpkin Spice” because it was on clearance at Wal-Mart.
Aren’t they lovely?
If you squint, you can read the homemade element flashcards Stephen made (6 years ago at age 8) for the first four elements of the Periodic Table.
For our atomic cookies:
- Number of Protons = Pink Hearts
- Number of Electrons = White Hearts
- Number of Neutrons = Red Hearts
And now… in addition to the atomic cookies, we also have some notebooking pages for students to record something interesting about each element. We’ve included an example of how you would use the notebooking page for the element Hydrogen. And… there are two line-sizes available for the notebooking pages – just choose whichever size is best for your student!
Other favorite Elemental Resources include…
Free Periodic Table of Elements with pictures and additional information for each element (mentioned above)
Free Chemistry, Element, and Periodic Table Games and Activities by Ellen McHenry
Free printable Element Flashcards with images and extra information