This project is a great idea for a science fair.
Grade Level
4-5th Grade
Difficulty Level
Easy
Cost
Minimal
Safety Issues
None
Material Availability
All necessary materials are readily available.
Project Time Frame
2 weeks
Objective
This project is a study in density.
The goals of this project are:
To discover the causes, effects and practical applications of density. To encourage technological advances.
Materials
Computer with internet access Color printer Digital camera Typical office/craft supplies (such as paper, pens & poster-board)
2 unopened diet soda cans
2 unopened regular soda cans
1 unopened seltzer water can
1 clear large storage bin
Water
All materials can be found in your home or at local stores.
Introduction
Density is a measurement that compares the amount of matter an object has to its volume. Objects that are lighter density than water will float.
Research Questions
What causes buoyancy?
How is buoyancy measured?
What kinds of cans will float and why?
How are the principles of buoyancy useful to us?
What is the difference between diet and regular soda?
Terms and Concepts to Start Background Research
Buoyancy Density Equilibrium Gravitational force
Weight
Marine Engineer
Research related materials (see bibliography below and search terms listed above)
Test whether soda cans sink or float.
Photograph all the cans with the labels showing.
Fill a large container with water. The water should be deep enough so you can easily tell which cans are floating and sinking.
Slowly place each can into the water one at a time.
Place each can on its side in the water so air is not trapped at the bottom of the can.
Observe the cans as you place them in the water. Which ones floating? Which ones sink?
After all the cans are in the water, try to figure out why some of the cans float and others sink.
Analyze the data.
Interpret your findings in a detailed report.
Include interesting photos in your science fair display.
Also display your cans and bin with water.
Bibliography
Wiki searches: “Density” and “Weight.”
Internet searches of your own choosing: Search for any of the terms listed above (or make up your own phrases to search), and click on any results that interest you. Have fun surfing the net!
Does your child have an interest in STEM/STEAM? Check out more of our hands-on project based learning programs such as our classes and camps.
The children of today are the leaders, scientists, inventors, and creators of tomorrow, and from a very young age they crave experiences that help them learn. Here at The STEAM Generation we understand that cultivating their interest in new things is key to building the skills and talent that will drive innovation and continue to improve our communities.
Our goal is to help students learn to think critically and to understand how interconnected the worlds of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) really are. To do this, The STEAM Generation works to build unique age-appropriate curriculum that makes learning a fun and engaging activity. The integration of the arts component into STEM makes it more fun to learn and more approachable to children. We focus on solving complex real-world scenarios and supporting students as they think, research, and collaborate with others to find a solution.
For example, in a typical preschool design project our students are encouraged to apply crucial engineering and innovation tactics while developing a sense of curiosity and creativity. The STEAM Generation projects foster a hands-on learning environment where knowledge is developed, not taught.
We would love to have your child join us on our next STEAM adventure! We are confident they will have fun, make great memories, and develop critical thinking skills that will benefit them no matter what future career they choose!
Learn more about our STEAM PROGRAMS.
We can teach children to internalize the same practices that engineers and scientists use to investigate the world, build models, develop theory, and design systems while they are still young. Kids love exploring the world around them and figuring out how things work.
There are so many different types of engineers. Engineers don't just build machines and structure; they design processes that help solve the world’s problems.
What does it mean to Think like an Engineer?
Engineers are creative problem solvers. They combine both science and art, and they think both creatively and analytically. They solve difficulties quickly and think broadly. Adding Arts to Science, Technology, Engineering makes STEAM which is better than STEM.
Engineering is essential as it challenges children to apply basic principles, and learning is enhanced. Engineering activities build on real-world problems and technologies. They help children to see how science and math play out in their day-to-day lives.
An engineer designs and builds complex systems, machines, products, and structures. As future engineers, children are keen to learn why and how things work. Before anything is made, it is first planned out or engineered.
Problem Solving
Problem solving is the process of solving complex or challenging issues. The problem is defined, the cause of the problem determined, alternative solutions identified, and implementing the solution. Children should learn mechanisms of identifying issues, figuring them out, and determining how to fix them.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is analyzing and evaluating an issue to form your own judgment. Critical thinking enhances children’s capacity for the presentation skills and language.
Thinking systematically enhances the expression of ideas and comprehension. Critical thinkers solve problems systematically instead of using instinct or intuition.
Peer Collaboration
Peer instruction or learning is collaborative learning in pairs or small groups that allow students to find solutions to problems or discuss concepts together. Cooperative learning is essential as students from various backgrounds, upbringing, and races work together. Children learn from others and get to hear alternative opinions.
The kids should know their team's roles, be good collaborators, loyal, motivate one another, appreciate their peers, avoid unnecessary communication, and use technology.
Peer-to-peer learning helps students to develop deep thinking. Group learning helps children to improve oral communication, high-level-thinking, leadership skills, and self-management.
Project-Based Learning
In Project Based Learning, students apply the knowledge they acquire in engaging classroom experiences. Students should actively explore challenges and real-world problems; develop skills to live in a knowledgeable, highly technological society.
Through these skills, the children become managers and directors of their learning process. A skilled teacher mentors and guides them to higher scales in learning.
In project-based learning, children work with laid goals, but in problem based learning; the children set the outcomes and set the learning goals.
Hands-on-Learning
Children learn by doing; not just listening to instructors. They are involved in creating something or solving a problem. Hands-on-learning develops critical skills and brings real-world experience to the kids. They use equipment and materials used on the job. Teaching your kids to think an engineer is all about preparing them to understand how things work, pay attention to their environment, think critically, and find better ways to solve problems. These are all skills that you can reinforce in the course of their day-to-day learning.