Objective
By the end of this lesson, Robin will explore the effects of temperature on freezing water, learn about color combinations using food coloring, and understand how different types of water freeze at different rates.
Materials and Prep
- Big trays of water
- Food coloring (various colors)
- Freezer
- Hot water (from the tap)
- Cold water (from the fridge)
- Clear water (room temperature)
Before starting the lesson, make sure you have enough trays to test different combinations of water temperatures and food colors. Prepare a space in the freezer for the trays.
Activities
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Color Mixing Fun: Robin will add different colors of food coloring to the trays of water and observe what happens when colors mix together. This activity will help Robin learn about primary and secondary colors!
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Temperature Test: Robin will fill trays with hot water, cold water, and clear water, and then place them in the freezer. We will check back after a few hours to see which tray freezes first!
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Observation Time: After the trays are frozen, Robin will take them out and observe the ice. We can talk about the colors and shapes and see if any patterns appear in the ice cubes.
Talking Points
- "What happens when we mix red and blue food coloring? Let's see if we can make purple!"
- "Why do you think hot water might freeze differently than cold water? Let's find out!"
- "Look at the ice! Do you see any colors? What happens when we hold it in our hands?"
- "Can you guess which tray will freeze first? Let's make a prediction!"
- "What do you think will happen if we put a lot of food coloring in? Will it freeze the same way?"