4 Simple Experiments to Spark STEM Learning Today
Want to introduce your Scouts to the fascinating world of STEM with fun, hands-on experiments? Of course you do! Do you always have time to set up lab equipment or clean up a mess of materials and “creations” afterwards? We didn’t think so.
While we’re all about the sense of satisfaction you get from successfully conducting a complex experiment, there are occasions when you may find yourself short on time, resources, or planning. But that doesn’t mean you should shy away from a learning opportunity!
STEM Scouts brings science, technology, engineering, and math to life through hands-on learning and if you’ve been following their #Tinker experiment videos on social media, you already know that these aren’t your average “volcano” experiments—they’re fresh, fun, and engaging for both kids and adults. These videos deliver a wide range of STEM activities. Whether you’re a seasoned lab instructor or just getting started in STEM learning, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you to try today.
Check out these four STEM Scouts #Tinker experiments that are simple to set up, require basic items, and entail minimal clean-up:
1. Soap-powered boat
What you’ll learn: Surface tension
What you need:
- Heavy-weight paper
- Liquid dish soap
- Large bowl or dish (or even a bathtub)
The fun part: Ready, set, soap race your boats!
2. Ice in a flash
What you’ll learn: Nucleation
What you need:
- Water bottles (purified)
- Large Bowl
- Ice
The fun part: Sit back and watch water turn to ice in seconds!
3. Leak-proof bag
What you’ll learn: Polymer Chains
What you need:
- Sharpened pencils
- Zipper-lock plastic bags
- Paper towels (just in case)
The fun part: Seeing the shock and awe on your friends’ faces when you show off your new “magic” trick.
4. DIY lava lamp
What you’ll learn: Chemical reactions
What you need:
- Water
- Clear plastic bottle
- Vegetable oil
- Food coloring
- Effervescent antacid tablets (like Alka-Seltzer)
The fun part: Watch the colorful bubbles dance to the top of your groovy, new décor.
You probably have most of the required items in your home already, so try out one (or four) of these cool experiments today.
If you enjoy discovering the STEM behind every-day items such as these, head to STEMscouts.org and discover a trove of cool experiments, fascinating facts, and the latest STEM Scouts news.
Want even more STEM fun? Find a STEM Scouts lab near you here!
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