STEAM@Home: Sink or Float Science
By Cambridge STEAM Initiative
What are some things that sink?
What are some things that float?
Experiment, observe, and explore!
Find a spot where you can make a wet mess. Gather your materials. Go!
This is an ongoing program.
Ages 4 to 10.
Contact
No application or registration needed.
- Sign-up is ongoing
Free!
Contact us for more information.
स्थान
At home, in a place where you can make a wet mess (kitchen, bathroom, outside)
Additional information
Materials:
- Sink and Float Activity Directions and Helpful Hints (English) OR Sink and Float Activity Directions and Helpful Hints (Spanish)
- Testing Data Sheet OR Blank Testing Data Sheet
- A button
- A pencil
- A marble
- A metal spoon
- A plastic fork
- A sponge
- A toothpick
- A small rock
- A metal bottle cap
Activity Set Up:
Find a spot either inside or outdoors where you can make a wet mess. Fill a small container with water (a clear container if you have one) OR fill the kitchen sink half-way with water and use a chair or stool so your child can comfortably reach the sink.
Tips for Supporting Your Children's Learning
Get your child actively involved in their own learning and having their questions drive the learning. Let them observe and figure out, and try to hold back from answering questions for them. Instead, try to ask: What do we know? What else can we find out? How might we figure that out? Don't be afraid to ask your child questions. Also, don't be afraid to say "I don't know--let's find out together!" as a way to respond to their questions. Here's an article to help you support this kind of learning: Of the Value of Saying I Don’t Know
This activity supports the practice of these STEAM Habits of Mind: Develop craft, engage & persist, observe, reflect, stretch & explore.
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Want to learn more about why things float or Sink?
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Cambridge Public Library - Info Bits for Kids
More hands on activities and learning opportunities:
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Cambridge Public Schools Virtual Enrichment Recommendations
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Science Club for Girls at Home recommendation
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Build a Bathtub Toy Raft (JK-3)
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Other recommended connections
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MIT Full STEAM Ahead - Science Out Loud Video - How do Ships Float? (6-8)
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More STEAM@Home suggestions!
Last updated अक्टोबर 26, 2020.
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