Sink & Float

Activity Overview

Guided play is an essential framework that young children use to investigate the scientific properties that surround them. Density is what decides whether an object sinks or floats in water. If something is less dense than water, it floats. If something is more dense than water, it sinks. Engaging in a sink and float activity is a valuable way to introduce our young learners to the scientific method through making a prediction, experimenting, and observing the results.

What You Need

• A container for water (a large bowl, a rubbermaid container, a roasting pan or whatever container works for you)

• 10 Items that your student wants to see if they will sink or float

Steps

1. Walk through your house with your student and find 10 things that you want to see if they will sink or float. Try to gather items from different rooms in the house (bathroom, kitchen, play area).

2. Once your materials are collected, take a piece of paper and go through each item with your student and see if they think the items will sink or float. Note what they say or what their predictions are. You can do this in two columns or however works for your family.

3. Test the items. One by one, put the items in the water and observe what happens. Discuss with your student the results.

Guiding Questions

• Do you think the item would sink if we left it in longer? Why or why not?

• Why do you think this item floats, and this one does not?

• What makes something float? What makes something sink?

Extensions

• The student can be in charge of writing the sink or float predictions.

• Have the student do a reflection drawing about their experience – do the activity then talk about their favorite parts, what they learned, and what questions they still have.

• The student should also have an opportunity to simply explore the water and enjoy the beauty of play! Add bowls, cups, funnels, spoons, ladles or any other fun tools that will add to their exploration.