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Rainbow in a Jar

Lesson Plan

Rainbow in a Jar

Understand density and layering

In this lesson, students will create a colorful rainbow in a jar using liquids of different densities. This hands-on activity introduces students to the scientific concepts of density and layering in a visually engaging way. By observing how different liquids stack on top of each other, students will gain a deeper understanding of how density affects the behavior of substances. This lesson is important as it encourages curiosity and critical thinking, while also providing a fun and interactive way to learn about science.

Audience

Upper Elementary Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Understand density and layering

Materials

Clear glass jar, Honey, Corn syrup, Dish soap, Water, Vegetable oil, Rubbing alcohol, Food coloring, Spoon, and Worksheet: Density and Layering

Step 1

Introduction to Density

5 mins

  • Begin by asking students if they know what density means.
  • Explain that density is how much 'stuff' is packed into a space.
  • Use simple examples like comparing a rock and a sponge of the same size.
  • Show a quick demonstration using a small rock and a sponge in water to illustrate density.

Step 2

Prepare the Materials

5 mins

  • Distribute materials to each group: clear glass jar, honey, corn syrup, dish soap, water, vegetable oil, rubbing alcohol, food coloring, and a spoon.
  • Explain the role of each liquid in the experiment, emphasizing that each has a different density.
  • Instruct students to add a few drops of food coloring to the water and rubbing alcohol to differentiate the layers.

Step 3

Conduct the Experiment

15 mins

  • Step 1: Pour honey into the jar, ensuring it covers the bottom completely.
  • Step 2: Slowly add corn syrup on top of the honey. Pour it over the back of a spoon to prevent mixing.
  • Step 3: Gently add dish soap, again using the back of a spoon.
  • Step 4: Carefully pour the colored water over the spoon to create the next layer.
  • Step 5: Add vegetable oil, pouring slowly to avoid mixing.
  • Step 6: Finally, pour the colored rubbing alcohol on top, using the spoon.
  • Encourage students to observe each layer forming and discuss why the liquids do not mix.

Step 4

Discussion and Reflection

5 mins

  • Lead a discussion on what students observed during the experiment.
  • Ask questions like: "Why do you think the liquids stayed in separate layers?" and "What did you learn about density today?"
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and reflections, and relate the experiment to real-world examples of density.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Summarize the key points of the lesson about density and layering.
  • Hand out the worksheet for students to complete as a review of the lesson.
  • Encourage students to think about other experiments they could do with density.
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Worksheet

Density and Layering Worksheet

This worksheet helps students review the concepts of density and layering by answering questions related to the experiment.

What is density?








List the liquids used in the experiment in order of their density.








Why do you think the liquids formed separate layers?








What did you find most interesting about the experiment?








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