Chemical Elements – Matching Pairs Game & Flashcards (1–118)

118 cards for learning the periodic table

A visual and interactive way to explore the periodic table 🧪🧠

This printable card set includes all 118 chemical elements and can be used either as a classic memory game or as flashcards for independent practice. Each card features the element’s symbol, atomic number, and name – providing a clear and accessible entry point into the world of chemistry.

The cards are designed to be used flexibly. You can print them twice to play Matching Pairs (also known as Memory®), where students turn over cards and try to find identical pairs. This helps improve concentration and recall while reinforcing students’ familiarity with element symbols and atomic numbers.

What’s included:

• 118 cards (PDF format) – one for each chemical element

• Each card includes: element symbol, name, and atomic number

• Use them as a memory game (print twice) or flashcards for review

• Black-and-white format allows for optional color coding (e.g. element groups or states of matter)

In my classroom:
I’ve used this resource with grades 7–10, both during our unit on the periodic table and as a review activity. Some groups like to sort the cards by group or period before playing. Others enjoy using them competitively, seeing who can name the most elements based on symbol alone. There’s also room for differentiation: stronger students can work without a periodic table for support, while others use it alongside.

The black-and-white version is copy-friendly and works well if you want students to color-code elements (e.g. metals vs. non-metals). You can also adapt the game for faster learners by having them group elements or research additional properties.

This is a low-prep activity you can use again and again – whether as a center activity, partner task, or quick review before a test.

Just print, cut, and play.

📍 Best wishes,
Heike from @Lernfitness

Did You Know?

I teach with a certified therapy dog, and together we create a positive and welcoming learning environment. 🐶