Germs Vs Soap: How Germs Run Away!

Print
School-age 1

What is best way to teach science to children other than doing science experiment with them. Today in our classroom, we conducted an engaging experiment that introduced the children to the concept of germs and how soap helps in getting rid of them. We used simple materials—water, pepper, and soap—to demonstrate how soap makes “germs” (represented by pepper) scatter and move away. As we sprinkled pepper onto the water, the children noticed that it floated on the surface, forming a layer that resembled how germs might sit on our hands. The real excitement came when the children dipped their fingers in soap and touched the water again. Friends were fascinated, watching with wide eyes as the pepper instantly moved away from the soap, spreading toward the edges of the bowl. Anya eagerly asked, “Why do the germs run away?” This question opened the door to a deeper discussion about the science behind the experiment. Educator explained that soap breaks down the oils on our hands, which is where germs tend to stick. When we use soap, these oils are lifted, and the germs are washed away. To help them visualize this, we talked about how the pepper sticks to the water just like germs stick to the oils on our skin. The children were amazed to learn that something as simple as soap could make such a big difference in protecting us from germs. Kobe said “germs are unhealthy for us”, Kelsie expanded the conversation said “Yes, they can make us sick”. Aeddan said “I always use soap to wash my hand”. Savannah said “it’s important to wash our hands” to everyone at the table. They actively engaged in the process, asking more questions and trying the experiment themselves. By the end of the activity, they not only understood the importance of handwashing but also began to grasp some basic scientific principles, how soap interacts with water. This experiment sparked their curiosity, encouraged critical thinking, and made a practical connection between science.

Children using dish soap to make pepper move away from their fingers

Children using dish soap to make pepper move away from their fingers