Module 2

Module #2

Module Title: Why are some nuclei unstable?

Estimated time to complete: 45 minutes

Module objectives: Students will build an understanding of unstable nuclei.

Concepts learned in this module:

Standards addressed in this module:

Maryland State Department of Education High School Science Core Learning Goals

Goal/Expectation	Description
Goal 1	The student will demonstrate ways of thinking and acting inherent in the practice of science. The student will use the language and instruments of science to collect, organize, interpret, calculate, and communicate information.
Goal 4	The student will demonstrate the ability to use scientific skills and processes to explain composition and interactions of matter in the world in which we live.
4.2	The student will explain that all matter has structure and the structure serves as the basis for the properties of and the changes in matter.

Technology-enhanced instructional strategies utilized in this module:

Web-based research

MODULE OVERVIEW

Components	Brief description of module activities	Student Grouping	Materials/ Technology
Engagement	Account for the "missing" mass in an atom	Class
Exploration	Textbook reading	Individual	Textbook
Explanation	Nuclear binding energy discussion	Class
Extension	Transmutation and transuranium elements	Groups	ABC’s of Nuclear Science at http://www.lbl.gov/abc/Basic.html
Evaluation	Unit test after Module 3	Individual

Expected module outcomes:

Students will understand the forces which cause a nucleus to be unstable.

Performance-based assessment of module outcomes:

Unit test after Module 3