🔬 Science & our world · Ages 5–6 · about 3 weeks

Materials and Water

Goal: Name what things are made of, and test which ones float, sink, soak up water or keep us dry.

For parents: A good scientist guesses first, then tests. Always ask 'What do you think will happen?' before you try.

Do together

  1. Sink or float

    You need: A bowl of water, a spoon, a leaf, a coin, a plastic lid, a stone

    Guess first, then test each one. Make two piles. Was your guess right?

  2. Umbrella test

    You need: Squares of paper, cloth, plastic, foil; a cup; water

    Cover a cup with each material and pour a spoon of water on top. Which keeps the inside dry? Which would make a good umbrella?

  3. What is it made of?

    You need: Objects from around the house

    Sort into wood, metal, plastic, glass and cloth. Tap each: what sound does it make?

Talk about it

  • Why do you think the stone sank?
  • What is your chair made of?
  • Which material would you use for a raincoat? Why?

Words to use

  • float
  • sink
  • wood
  • metal
  • plastic
  • glass
  • waterproof

Play

  • Sink or Float
    Sink & float
  • Hot & Cold Lab
    Temperature
  • Sort It Out
    Sorting
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