Category

Water and Solutions

Earth's AtmosphereGeologyWater and Solutions

Cloud in a Glass

As you're studying weather, take a few minutes to make a cloud in a glass to help explain the process of condensation and cloud formation. What you'll need: clear glass or jar, kitchen matches, ice cubes, small plate or pan that will completely cover top of glass or jar (metal works best), boiling or very hot water Procedure: 1. Fill the plate or pan with ice cubes and have it ready to quickly place over…
Cheryl Taylor
February 27, 2017
BiologyChemistryPlantsProperties of MatterTeaching ScienceWater and Solutions

Using Popcorn to Practice Scientific Method

This is a fairly common science fair project that I actually helped my grandson carry out for an elementary science fair. It's definitely not a new idea, but a great way to let children work through the scientific method using a fun topic . . . POPCORN! The question to be answered is: "Does storage temperature affect how well popcorn pops?" Children will be storing popcorn in a warm environment, room temperature, cold, and frozen.…
Cheryl Taylor
May 23, 2016
ChemistryEarth MaterialsGeologyWater and Solutions

Growing Crystals with Common Chemicals

Crystal growing is a fun activity for kids and it is relevant to several areas of science, such as chemistry, as well as mineral formation in geology. Schools often use commercial chemicals to grow crystals in the classroom, and these chemicals can be difficult, if not impossible, to purchase as an individual. Here are a few household chemicals that can be used to grow crystals at home: Aluminum potassium sulfate (alum) can be purchased in…
Cheryl Taylor
April 14, 2014
ChemistryWater and Solutions

Separating Colors with Chromatography

What is Chromatography? Chromatography is the process of separating a mixture into its individual components. The easiest way to show this process to children is by using chromatography to separate inks. Waterproof inks in permanent markers and ball point pens require a chemical solvent, but the ink in washable markers can be separated with water, making for an easy and safe experiment. Materials: washable markers, coffee filters, pie pan Procedure: 1. Flatten a coffee filter…
Cheryl Taylor
March 17, 2014
ChemistryWater and Solutions

Popsicle Science – Turn a Summer Snack into a Science Lesson!

Do you make popsicles for your kids during the summer? Involve them in the process and turn it into a science lesson! Materials: juice, plastic cup, ruler, waterproof marker, popsicle stick (or plastic spoon), index card Procedure: 1. Fill a small plastic cup about ½ full of juice. (Cups with the straightest sides work best.) 2. Cut a slit in the middle of an index card and place it over the cup. Insert a Popsicle…
Cheryl Taylor
March 17, 2014