Sink or float is a fast and easy but powerful science experiment!
Materials:
- Large shallow bin
- Mixing bowl
- Liquid watercolor *optional
- Items from around the house
Instructions:
In a large shallow bin, put a large mixing bowl of water in the center (if you’d like, add a few drops of liquid watercolor to the water to color it). Next, gather some random items from around the house that can get wet (toys, kitchen items, items from nature, etc.) Pose the question- “Will this item sink or float?” Then, explain what each term means. Choose an item and make a hypothesis/ guess, test the item, then analyze the result. Continue until all the items have been tested.
Tip- This activity uses some big scientific method terms, which you might be thinking is too advanced for your child. Don’t underestimate them! Your child can start learning and internalizing these steps now with your support.
What are they learning?
- Investigation & Inquiry- Observes, inquires, and investigates objects and events to gain understanding.
- Physical Science- Explores forces, motion, and materials and how they change.
- Communication (Expressive Language)- Uses verbal and nonverbal communication to express ideas with increasingly complex words and sentences. Engages in back-and-forth communication.
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