Rainbow Density Tower
Discover the science of density by creating a stunning layered liquid tower. This challenge explores why some liquids float while others sink, using common household ingredients to build a vibrant, gravity-defying display.
The lesson goal is in this spark, your learner will predict how different liquids will layer based on their density, construct a multi-layered liquid column with distinct boundaries and explain the concept of density in relation to floating and sinking.
What You Need
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Learning Guide
Step-by-step guidance. No preparation required.
- 1
Introduction5 Min
- Ask about floating, sinking, and mixing.
- Move on when Student engages with Mai's question, sharing an observation or a 'wondering' about floating/sinking.
Photo by Denys Gromov on Pexels - 2
Explore & Plan8 Min
- Gather glass, water, oil, honey/soap.
- Predict liquid layering order.
- Move on when Student has gathered materials and articulated a prediction about the layering order and their reasoning.
Photo by ManojMk Brucelee on Pexels - 3
Discussion6 Min
- Explain layering predictions and reasoning.
- Move on when Student can explain their predictions for liquid layering and the reasoning behind them.
Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels - 4
Activity9 Min
- Set up a stable pouring surface.
- Carefully pour the first liquid.
- Carefully pour the second liquid.
- Carefully pour the third liquid.
- Observe the liquid layers.
- Move on when Student has successfully poured all liquids into the glass, observing the layering (or mixing) effect.
Photo by Bamusiime Sylvia on Pexels - 5
Summary2 Min
- Reflect on observations and explain layering.
- Move on when Student shares one key observation or learning from the activity and attempts to explain it.
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