What's So Special about Water: Surface Tension

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In this three-part activity, learners play a game and conduct two simple experiments to explore water and surface tension. Learners will have fun discovering how water "sticks" together. This lesson guide includes instructions for three mini activities, key vocabulary words, extension ideas, helpful hints, and resources. Educators can also use this "sticking together" activity to emphasize the importance of empathy and listening.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Game, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Laminated “Amazing Water Race Water Stretch” Activity Sheet
  • Penny
  • Eyedropper
  • Paper clips
  • Cup of water

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Collection
  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Solutions
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Games

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Bowers, Sally

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System, 2008