Core Skills Analysis
Science
- Observed the physical change of skittles dissolving in water, introducing the concept of solubility.
- Recognized how sugar coating on skittles interacts with water to cause color to spread, illustrating diffusion.
- Noted cause-and-effect relationships as the bright colors disperse, supporting early scientific observation skills.
Sensory Development
- Engaged visual senses by watching vibrant colors dissolve and mix in water, enhancing visual tracking abilities.
- Experienced tactile curiosity about changes in water and skittles, stimulating exploratory observation.
Tips
To deepen understanding, introduce variations by using different liquids such as warm water or vinegar to compare how quickly skittle colors dissolve, enhancing cause-and-effect reasoning. Encourage the child to predict outcomes before adding skittles, fostering early scientific thinking. Incorporate simple questions like ‘What do you see happening?’ and ‘Which color dissolves fastest?’ to build vocabulary and observation skills. You can also extend the activity by creating patterns with the skittles in the plate before adding water, promoting creativity and fine motor skills as the child places them.
Book Recommendations
- Rainbow Fish To The Rescue! by Marcus Pfister: A brightly illustrated story that helps children notice colors and introduces concepts of sharing and kindness.
- Water Can Be... by Laura Purdie Salas: A poetic exploration of the many forms and functions of water, fostering curiosity about liquid properties.
- My First Science Book by Usborne: An interactive introduction to simple science experiments suitable for toddlers and young children.
Learning Standards
- Science Understanding: ACSSU002 - Explore and observe how materials change when mixed with water.
- Science Inquiry Skills: ACSIS011 - Participate in guided investigations, observing and describing changes.
- Visual Arts: ACAVAM107 - Explore visual effects by mixing colors.
Try This Next
- Create a worksheet with color matching and cause-effect question prompts based on the skittles dissolving activity.
- Set up a simple experiment notebook where the child can draw what happens over time with different skittle arrangements.