Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will understand the concept of Oobleck and be able to apply the scientific method to explore its properties.

Materials and Prep

• Cornstarch
• Water
• Food coloring (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic tray or tablecloth for easy cleanup

No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Activity 1: Making Oobleck

   Mix 1 cup of cornstarch with ½ cup of water in the large mixing bowl. Add a few drops of food coloring if desired. Stir the mixture slowly and observe its consistency. Is it a solid or a liquid? Can you pick it up? What happens when you squeeze it? Record your observations.

2. Activity 2: Testing Oobleck

   Try different experiments with your Oobleck. For example, try rolling it into a ball and then letting it melt in your hand. Test its ability to flow by pouring it slowly from a cup. Observe how it reacts when you apply pressure or try to stir it quickly. Record your findings and any interesting observations.

3. Activity 3: Oobleck Race

   Create a small track or obstacle course using the plastic tray or tablecloth. Place a small amount of Oobleck at the starting line and use your fingers or a spoon to move it through the course without touching it directly. Time yourself and see how quickly you can complete the race. Experiment with different techniques and record your results.

Talking Points

• Oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid, which means its viscosity changes depending on the force applied to it.

• When you mix cornstarch with water, you create a suspension of tiny solid particles in the liquid. This unique mixture gives Oobleck its unusual properties.

• When Oobleck is squeezed or pressed slowly, it behaves like a solid and resists the force. However, when it is poured or stirred quickly, it flows like a liquid.

• The scientific method involves making observations, asking questions, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing the results. By using the scientific method, we can understand and explain the properties of Oobleck.