Oobleck
[30 Minutes]
This activity has been used by science and homeroom teachers for years. It is fun but messy!
You'll need:
• one box of cornstarch • water (enough to thicken the cornstarch) • green food coloring (optional) • mixing bowl • Dr. Seuss's "Bartholomew and the Oobleck" (optional)
What to do:
- If you have it, read "Bartholomew and the Oobleck" by Dr. Seuss. It describes a fictitious kingdom which encounters an "oobleck" storm.
- Mix together the ingredients listed above in your mixing bowl until thick but pliant.
- Be careful if adding the food coloring because it can stain.(Green is the color of "oobleck" in the story.)
How to use:
The "oobleck" is fun to play with and can teach about the scientific properties of liquids and solids. At the correct consistency (flowing slowly like molasses), items dropped into the mixture sink to the bottom. When "oobleck" is hit hard by an object, the object will bounce. Children have fun sticking their fingers into the substance, and taking turns dropping in different items to see which sink more quickly.
Let's Talk: Ideas to Explore Together.
- Can you name some liquids? Solids?
- Is Oobleck a liquid? A solid? Why do you think so?
Useful information:
This is an opportunity to discuss "properties" with your child. Oobleck is one of the few substances that has properties of both solids and liquids. It might be fun to name other items nearby that have properties of solids or liquids to which children may compare the oobleck. This may also serve as an appropriate science fair topic!
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