The preschoolers engaged in a hands-on exploration of the concept of absorption using water and a variety of materials. Ice trays, water, and eye droppers were provided, along with plastic diamonds, metal marbles, cotton, and paper towels.
Geumhwa asked, “What will happen if you put water on them?” After pouring water on the materials, Carina observed that the paper towel and cotton were getting wet. Geumhwa explained, “They are wet because they are soaking up the water. That's called absorption.” Rory, Addison, Cecelia, and Leila focused on using the eye droppers to transfer water into the ice cube trays. They practiced squeezing the droppers to draw up water and release it onto different materials.
After completing his first turn, Jayden returned for another opportunity to explore and stayed at the table until the end of the activity, demonstrating strong interest and curiosity about the experiment. Penny F. made a real-life connection during her play, sharing, “My pants got wet when I spilled milk on them,” showing her ability to relate new learning to familiar experiences. Tong Tong showed interest in the motion of the metal marble by rolling it back and forth on the tray. Emma shared her thinking, explaining that the paper towel “likes water.” She carefully tested different materials one by one and told Geumhwa that cotton also liked water, while the metal marble and plastic diamond did not. Her comments reflected thoughtful observation and curiosity.
As they explored, the preschoolers repeatedly practiced using the word “absorb.” Through observation, experimentation, and shared conversation, the children deepened their understanding of how different materials interact with water.
To build on this learning, additional materials such as sponges, rocks, and glass can be provided for further exploration, allowing the children to continue investigating absorption and comparing materials in new ways.
