Easy Fall Sink or Float Preschool Science Activity
Introduce your child to the Scientific Method and the concepts of sink or float with this fun and EASY fall preschool science activity!
Ingredients
- apple(s) various types and sizes
- mini pumpkin(s) and gourd(s) various types and sizes
- acorn(s)
- walnut(s) in shells
- leaves various types, real or artificial
- pine cone(s) various sizes
- stone(s) various sizes
- wicker rattan ball(s) various sizes
- silicone muffin pan(s) apple- or leaf-shaped
- bin(s) large, plastic or disposable aluminum
- egg carton(s) cut into various sizes
- food storage container(s) various sizes
- water enough to fill one pan halfway
Instructions
- Fill one pan about halfway with water. Place objects in the other pan or on a surface nearby.
- Demonstrate and discuss the scientific concept of sinking versus floating by placing one floating and one sinking object in the pan of water. Then, remove the objects and set aside.
- Encourage your child to pick up and examine the various fall-themed objects. Discuss the characteristics and weight of the objects and form a hypothesis about (i.e. guess) which objects will sink or float. Sort the objects based on this hypothesis if desired.
- Have your child test their hypothesis by choosing an item and placing it in the water. Discuss the results of the experiment and set the object aside before choosing and testing another. Sort objects by "sink" or "float" results if desired.
- Show your child how to use the egg carton pieces, food storage containers, and muffin pan as floating boats on the water. Encourage your child to experiment by placing various objects in the boats to see how many objects it takes to sink each boat.
- Encourage imaginative and sensory play during and after the science activity.
