Hands-on experiments are an engaging way for kids to explore science. Simple projects such as these make learning accessible and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Although most rocks tend to sink in water, this experiment demonstrates some can float! Furthermore, this activity provides students with a hands-on introduction to density by layering liquids of various densities into clear containers to illustrate how they separate and stack, providing a tangible introduction.
Magnet Attraction Experiment
Kids will love this simple magnet experiment that shows them the interactions between various metal types. Additionally, they’ll discover that magnets have different polarities which attract and repel each other.
At this station, children explore magnetic fields using two rectangular magnets and a small collection of paper clips. They sort them into two piles – those attracted by the magnet and those not.
Physical science experiments for fourth graders cover balanced and unbalanced forces, patterns in motion and static electricity. Furthermore, projects also introduce waves and gravity.
Color Change Experiment
At this age, kids can advance beyond simply testing hypotheses to using their results to make scientific arguments. To facilitate this transition, they should begin including more quantitative data in their lab reports.
Color change experiments provide children with an effective visual demonstration of chemical transformations in matter. Kids can see first-hand how acid-base reactions and oxidation-reduction changes alter pH levels or cause it to change colors in liquids, altering pH or producing different shades altogether.
Rocks fascinate children, and this project provides them with the chance to closely observe and experience natural objects first-hand. Furthermore, this experiment teaches kids that rocks absorb water for easier understanding of erosion and weathering processes.
Dry-Erase Floating Marker Experiment
What might appear as a magical trick actually educates kids on the science of dry erase marker ink. By creating a water-repelling barrier with their ink, markers “float” on top of water instead of sinking, leading them to “beam out.” This STEAM activity fosters creativity and fine motor skills while satisfying investigative curiosity.
Fourth grade physical science students investigate balanced and unbalanced forces, patterns in motion, static electricity and magnetism, energy transference forms and collisions – in particular exploring gravity concepts.
This gravity experiment for kids is one of our favorites and provides a wonderful introduction to force.
Jell-O Earthquake Experiment
This fun, simple experiment helps students understand how buildings are designed to withstand earthquake damage. Furthermore, it reinforces that even when structures fail, lessons should still be drawn from these experiences and learned from.
Students construct their own buildings and then test them in an earthquake simulation with Jell-O. This lesson includes an easy-to-read text, quiz and two experiments for maximum learning!
Introduce students to Jell-O as a model of what happens during an earthquake, explaining that its gelatinous surface represents how the ground moves during an quake. Gently tapping on the pan to show how an earthquake produces waves of energy that travel through mantle and crust and cause buildings to shake in its path, shaking buildings above.
Chocolate Chip Picking Experiment
Use #InternationalChocolateChipDay to its full potential by conducting this engaging cookie excavation science experiment! Children will learn about archaeology’s principles – particularly being mindful when handling artifacts – while becoming acquainted with archaeology itself.
Physical science experiments typically explore forms and transfers of energy such as sound, light, heat or current electricity; speed-energy relationships; collisions; etc. By conducting these simple experiments with your children you can show which materials conduct and insulate sound better; which objects collide more forcefully than others and so forth.
Come up close and personal with DNA through Little Bins for Little Hands’ Peeps science experiment, an excellent addition to a science fair poster board display!
DNA Strand Experiment
DNA molecules provide a blueprint that governs life itself. With this science activity, students can get up close and personal with their DNA strand.
While this experiment uses strawberries, you could also use any fruit with enough enzymes to release DNA such as kiwis or bananas – although strawberries make an easy option for children to pulverize with their hands!
Cold alcohol used in this experiment helps separate protein chains that bind DNA, making it easier for students to view its strands under a microscope and demonstrate its double-helix shape.
Sports Drink Electrolyte Experiment
Sports drink companies spend millions each year advertising that their beverages can replenish electrolytes lost through sweating. To test this claim, this project uses a conductance sensor to compare electrolyte levels in Gatorade and orange juice beverages in order to determine which beverage contains more of these essential nutrients.
Students explore how electricity works by creating simple electric circuits in this enjoyable hands-on experiment that marries physics and chemistry. An engaging way to illustrate energy transference, this science fair project provides students with a perfect opportunity to develop observation and investigation skills.