Experiment time
Why play this way?
Float and sink play is science at its best. By simply playing with different objects in water, children are experimenting and observing, testing their curiosity and challenging predictions – all activities that ignite the scientific mind. The introduction of a prediction/result chart is an amazing way to more formally recreate the scientific process. This may invite your child to use this approach and apply these methods of experimentation in other areas of their lives.
SET THE STAGE FOR PLAY: 10 Minutes
Ready
Large tub, pot, sink, or bathtub
Water
A set of small, gathered items from around the house that you are interested in testing. Some examples include:
- Eraser, pencil, cork, button, pebble, rubber band, lego, plastic cup, sponge, etc.
Optional: Prediction & Result Sheet & a pencil or crayon.
Set
Sort your items into two piles: one for items you predict will float and one for items you predict will sink.
Optional: Record your predictions on your Prediction & Result Sheet.
Fill your large tub, pot, sink, or bathtub with water.
Play!
Let’s find out if your predictions were right! Place each item into the water and see if it sinks or floats.
Optional: Record your results alongside your predictions.
Play and experiment freely with your objects in the water.
You can support this play by asking open-ended questions or making statements that leave room for your little one to reflect:
- What do you think will happen when we put this cork in the water?
- I wonder why some of these are under the water and some are on top?
PLAY YOUR WAY! What else can you do with these open ended materials?
