One of the easiest science experiments is “Sink or Float.”  Just gather up some stuff on your living room floor and toss it in a bowl of water.  Done.  Science.

Okay, you could probably make it a little more educational.

First, make some predictions (hypotheses) about the objects.  An easy way to do this is group them into “sink” and “float” piles.  For older kids, make a chart of the objects, hypotheses, and actual results.  You can make your own or print one from the handy internet.

Next, the fun part.  Test the objects in water.  This is a hit with all ages.  Who doesn’t love dropping things in water?

Then, discuss the results and draw conclusions.  Ah, the learning part.  Were your hypotheses correct?  What do the sinking objects have in common?  What makes an object float?

I always like to follow up an experiment with a good book.  Check out library books with a 532 call number or try some of my favorites:

• Magic School Bus Ups and Downs: A Book about Floating and Sinking  by Joanna Cole
• What Floats?  What Sinks?  A Look at Density by Jennifer Boothroyd
• Will it Float or Sink? (Rookie Read-About Science) by Melissa Stewart

And if your library seems oh-so-far-away, try this equally educational online video.  Plus it’s interactive!!

• Sesame Street “Sink or Float”