Oobleck Exploration

Activity Overview

Oobleck, which was popularized by Dr. Seuss in 1949’s Bartholomew and the Oobleck, is an interesting and mysterious substance. Technically, it is a non-Newtonian fluid, as it has properties of both a liquid and a solid. This material can drip and almost pour when touched gently, but when you touch or squeeze it with force over a large surface area, it gets firmer and bouncier like a solid. This project is designed so that the student can create Oobleck independently, and this should be encouraged, if possible. Remember that children should feel active as co-constructors of their own learning will invest more in the process when allowed to be hands-on and involved.

What You Need

• Water

• Cornstarch

• Mixing bowl

• Sensory bin

Steps

1. The recipe for oobleck is quite simple: 1 part water to 1½–2 parts cornstarch. Mix your ingredients together with your student.

2. Add the substance to the sensory bin and go over the sensory bin rules.

3. Allow the child to explore the material and use guiding questions to help frame your conversation with your student.

Guiding Questions

• How does the water change when we add cornstarch?

• How does this mixture feel in your hands?

• How can you manipulate the material?

• How does it move?

• Could we add tools to this material?

Extensions

• As with so many sensory materials, this material can be engaging over many days if the materials added to it are changed every few days. Add loose parts, animals, baking or cooking utensils, mixing bowls, and spoons to augment the play.