1. Atomic Structure & The Periodic Table; Radioactivity
PBL (unit 3) HIGH SCHOOL
Atomic Structure &
The Periodic Table;  
Radioactivity

2. STANDARDS
SPS4
Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain the changes in nuclear structure as a result of fission, fusion and radioactive decay.
a. Develop a model that illustrates how the nucleus changes as a result of fission and fusion.
b. Use mathematics and computational thinking to explain the process of half-life as it relates to radioactive decay. (Clarification statement: Limited to calculations that include whole half-lives.)
c. Construct arguments based on evidence about the applications, benefits, and problems of nuclear energy as an alternative energy source.

3. BACKGROUND
The population in Georgia is growing at a rate of 1.19%. We are the 10th fastest growing state in the nation.
Our current population is 10,450,316.
The population is expected to reach
14.7 million by the year 2030. (

4. BACKGROUND
In order to provide electricity for our population we have the following power plants:

5. Problem
You are a citizen who is worried that Georgia may not be able to meet the power needs of our vastly growing population. Your local community has asked you to do research about the possibility of additional nuclear power plants to be built in Georgia to meet our power needs. You know that there are two schools of thought regarding nuclear power; there are definite pros & cons to using nuclear energy.

6. SOLUTION Your task is to……
learn all you can about the application, benefits & problems of nuclear power as an alternative energy source
present your findings to our representative in congress

7. Atomic & nuclear structure Periodic table of elements Nuclear decay
Learning Process
Atomic & nuclear structure
Periodic table of elements
Nuclear decay
Pros & Cons of nuclear energy

8. How to present
Since we cannot visit DC this early in the year, you will record a video presentation for our congressional representatives.

9. Partner Presentations
You will work with a partner
One will make the “pro nuclear” presentation
One will make the “con nuclear presentation”