Density

container filled with water and oil floating on top of it

You're Oil I Need

Format: In Person, Virtual | Grade: Upper Elementary (4-5), Middle (6-8)

Students use a simple model to consider what happens during an oil spill, making predictions, observations and explanations. Students are surprised by how the oil and water will not mix, however hard they try!

This investigation requires access to a water supply.

Keyword(s): Density, Oil Spills
container of water with red food dye making a mushroom cloud shape with the container propped up by four jacks and a cup of water underneath

Stormy Weather

Format: In Person, Virtual | Grade: Upper Elementary (4-5), Middle (6-8)

What does the inside of a hurricane look like? Students unpack this question using a tank model and all its stormy patterns.

This investigation requires access to a water supply and a power outlet. 

Keyword(s): Density, Heat Transfer, Convection, Hurricanes
tank of water propped up at an angle with blue food dye along the bottom

Sea for Yourself

Format: In Person, Virtual | Grade: Upper Elementary (4-5), Middle (6-8)

Students consider density in the context of ocean flows as they make predictions and then test their ideas by creating their own density currents!

This investigation requires access to a water supply, ice, and a power outlet.

Keyword(s): Density, Ocean Currents