Lets Think About...Water

Activities:

1. Water Molecules Like To Stick Together

Give each child a small plastic water bottle half filled with water. Add blue food coloring for interest. Have children add some sequins or glitter into the bottle. Place the cap on the bottle and seal it with duct tape. Let children play with bottles moving and shaking them.

Discussion:
What is in the bottle? (water, food coloring, sequins air) Why is the water on the bottom and the air on top? Can you turn the bottle upside down? What happens? Why do you think water stays with water and air stays with air?

2. Water's Weight Helps Things Float

Will it float in water?
Fill a basin with water. Place it at a level that is accessible for children. (Note: A water table can also be used for this activity.) Gather assorted items and place on a tray. Be sure that some of the items will sink and some will float. Have children test the items one at a time, separating them into two categories as they work: Things that sink. Things that float.

Discussion:
Do all things act the same when placed in water? Do all things float? Why do some things float and some things sink? Does an object need to be a certain shape to float? Do small things float easier than large things?

3. Water Can Change Back and Forth From a Liquid To a Solid

With children fill a large clear tupperware container with water. Place the water in the freezer. When frozen, remove from the freezer and take out into the sunshine. Let it melt.