What objects did we use for this science activity?
- Turkey cookie cutter
- wire whisk
- pumpkin shaped silicone cup
- plastic napkin rings
- metal measuring cup
- small squash
- plastic measuring spoon
It was interesting to see what sank and what floated. One type of plastic napkin ring sank and one floated. The silicone cup without water in it floated. When it was filled with water, it sank. Several things we thought were the heaviest and would sink did. The metal measuring cup and squash sank right away as did the wire whisk.
He played for awhile and I just enjoyed watching him test out objects and enjoy water play.After giving JDaniel time to play with objects in the water, we talked more about his findings.
I asked him the following questions:
- Did the color of the object matter?
- Does material the object made off matter?
- Did having a hole in an object help it float or sink?
- Does it matter if the object is solid?
- Will an object that allows water to follow through it sink or float?
Doing This Science Activity in Other Settings
While JDaniel and I were together for this experiment, I think that leaving the objects out at the water table as an invitation to learn would have been fun too. In a classroom setting I think children would talk amongst themselves about what they were finding. Exploring sinking and floating would be wonderful in a variety of settings.
My Insights
I love talking through science experiment outcomes with JDaniel. It helps him understand what he is understanding about science and his thoughts on what we are doing in general. There is just something wonderful that happens when we are together exploring concepts. This Thanksgiving science activity on sinking and floating allowed for that.
If you like this science activity, here are more science activities you will love:
Planting a Pumpkin in a Pumpkin
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I love the sinking and floating experiment. My daughter would love that. I’m going to have to do something just like this. I think I can find a few things that will surprise her with the way they sink or float! –Lisa
This seems like a very fun way to do science!
What a fun and educational activity! Water play always appealed to my kids, and you’ve turned it into something scientific.
Cool!
=)
Oh I love sink or float…Last time Ben did this I added a marshmallow.. We had lots of fun with this experiment.. He loves Science..
Have a tiggerifferic day~! ta ta for now from Iowa:)
That’s a fun idea, I know my little guy would love it, and we do have a water table. Thanks for the great idea.
So much fun! Thanks for the ideas.
That is fun! You are a great mom!
I love the question “Does the color of the item matter?” That will really get them thinking! 🙂
What a great example of learning through play!
Fun twist on a classic experiment!
We love to take out our water table! It is out all year around.