Activities

1. Define element.
   
   
2. Define compound.
   
   
3. Define mixture.

4. Create a chart to sort a given list of elements, compounds, and mixtures.
   
   
5. Use a Venn diagram to compare and contrast elements and compounds.

6. Explain how you could separate sand from water.
   
   
7. Give an example of an element, a compound, and a mixture that you would find in your house. Explain what each of your choices are used for.

Answer Key/Rubric

1. An element is a substance that is made from only one type of atom and cannot be broken down by physical or chemical processes to form a simpler substance.
   
   
2. A compound is the combination of two or more elements are chemically joined.
   
   
3. A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are mixed together but not joined chemically.
   
   
4. 
   

5. Acceptable responses might include, but not be limited to:
   • Elements – consist of one type of atom; cannot be broken down into a simpler substance; there are about 118 known elements; represented by symbols and numbers
   • Compounds – consist of two or more elements; can be broken down into simpler substances (elements); held together by chemical bonds; represented by formulas
   • Center of diagram – compounds are made up of elements

6. Acceptable responses might include, but not be limited to:
   • The mixture could be pour through a filter placed over a bowl. The water would drain into the bowl and the sand would stay in the filter.
   • Put the mixture into a beaker and let it stand overnight. The sand will settle on the bottom of the beaker because it is insoluble and heavier than the water.

7. Acceptable responses might include, but not be limited to:
   • Elements – oxygen we breathe; gold in jewelry; phosphorous on the tips of matches
   • Compounds – baking soda used to make baked goods; milk used to dip Oreos in; table salt to put on popcorn
   • Mixtures – chocolate chip cookies to eat; cement used to make the sidewalk in front of my house