STEM Task: Floating Layers

Here is a fun, low-prep science experiment for your middle grades class! It's perfect for a Friday afternoon, day before a holiday, or as part of your regular science curriculum. Students will have a chance to experiment with simple, everyday materials to learn about a science concept in a hands-on manner. They will have to make a prediction before completing the experiment and draw a detailed and labelled diagram after they are done. They will also define relevant vocabulary words and answer a question about what they learned.

Floating Layers: Why are oil spills hard to clean up? Why do people float more easily in the ocean? How do different kinds of liquids interact? Can you make a grape float? This easy experiment uses everyday liquids to teach students about the concept of density. You can gather enough supplies so groups can complete the experiment themselves, or you can do it in front of the whole class.

Student Instructions:

1) Slowly pour each type of liquid, one at a time, into your cup.

2) Wait until different layers separate.

3) Finally, add the grape.

How to Use:

Students can work in small groups. Go over the instructions and materials and give students time to predict before they start the experiment. Review the findings and relevant vocabulary after students have completed their experiment and diagram.

Grades to Use With: This activity is great for middle grades (4-7) classrooms or high school special education classes.

If you enjoy this experiment, check out some others in my store:

STEM TASK: Bridge Build

STEM TASK: Tower Build

STEM TASK: Falling Slowly

STEM TASK: Penny Drop

STEM TASK: Paper Chain

STEM TASK: Bubble Cubes

Or, you can get all 8 in a bundle here: 8 Low-Prep STEM Tasks for Elementary and Middle School: Simple Handouts for Each Experiment

One-page PDF handout with with material list, instructions, prediction, vocabulary or reflection, and room for a labelled diagram.