School-age 1 engaged in an exciting science experiment to explore how food colouring reacts in different types of water. We got two glasses of water. We had one glass of plain water and we added salt in another glass of water. Our friends took turns to add salt in water and mix it well. The children gathered around eagerly, their eyes filled with curiosity, as we carefully added a few drops of blue food colouring into each glass. Immediately, they noticed a difference! In the fresh water, the colour quickly spread and mixed, creating a beautiful swirling effect, while in the saltwater, the food colouring remained at an upper level, forming a striking layer that seemed to resist sinking. As they observed the unexpected results, the children became even more curious. They started asking questions excitedly: Bentley said, “How is that happening”? Kelsie was surprised and said, “Why is the colour staying on top”? Is the salt holding the colour in place? asked Agustin. Their fascination grew as they shared their thoughts. Zoey believed the salt acted as a barrier, preventing the food colouring from sinking, while Charli suggested that the salt made the water thicker, stopping the colour from moving freely. George confidently stated, maybe salt holds the colour with his hands! Their curiosity sparked a deeper discussion about the properties of water and how different substances can change the way it behaves. As we introduced the concept of density, the children listened intently. We explained that adding salt to water makes it heavier, or denser, which prevents the food colouring from sinking and spreading as quickly as it does in fresh water. They were fascinated to learn that over time, the food colouring in saltwater would eventually mix, but at a much slower rate. Just as we were wrapping up our discussion, George, suddenly exclaimed, What will happen if we mix both waters together? His excitement was contagious, and soon, all the children were eager to find out. Would the colours blend instantly, or would something new and unexpected happen? To test this, we carefully poured the saltwater into the glass of fresh water. The children watched in amazement as the blue colour swirled in a mesmerizing pattern, slowly diffusing as the two types of water combined. This simple experiment turned into a thrilling scientific exploration. Not only did the children learn about density, but they also developed their skills in observation, prediction, and critical thinking. Most importantly, they experienced the joy of discovery: questioning, investigating, and finding excitement in the wonders of the world around them.
