Lesson by Kirsty Smith
Learning Intentions:
- To develop your understanding of objects that float and those that sink.
Step 1: Activity overview for parent, carers and pupils
In this activity there is a video (approximately three minutes) and a template to use or copy to support the learning.
The main activity can be completed offline.
Step 2: Introduction to the activity and additional information
The aim of this activity is to explore the concept of floating and sinking. Start by watching the video ‘Who Sank the Boat’ by Pamela Allen. Use the story to discuss what the terms ‘floating’ and ‘sinking’ mean. What things can you think of that float and sink? Do they have anything in common? Can people float?
- What did you think of the story?
- What happens when something sinks?
- What happens when something floats?
Step 3: Tasks to carry out for this activity
Activity 1
You can either use the template below or create one to record your observations:
- Choose items from around the house to test (ask permission from an adult).
- Make predictions on whether or not the items will float or sink. Discuss reasons why your child thinks this object will float or sink e.g. weight, material it is made out of, previous knowledge.
- Test each item to see whether it floats or sinks (this could be done in the bath, in a paddling pool, in a washing up bowl, in a plastic box…etc).
- Record whether or not each object floats or sinks and discuss whether predictions were correct.
- Look at all of the items that float/ sink –do they have anything in common? You could discuss how objects made of wood usually float, objects made of metal will usually sink. Children may come to conclusion that heavier objects generally sink, you could look at how large ships are very heavy but they still float.
Once you have completed the task you can email anything you create (photos, documents, screenshots etc.) directly to your teacher or directly upload it to any of the available places in Step 5.
Step 4: Look over the success criteria for this activity:
Success criteria #1: I understand what floating and sinking mean.
Success criteria #2: I can undertake a simple experiment.
Success criteria #3: I can record my findings.
Look at the learning intentions ‘how well do you think you have done?’
Step 5: Upload your work
Click on the relevant link below if you have any work to upload to your online areas