Discovering Density
Grades 6—8
Written by Jacqueline Barber, Marion
E. Buegler, Laura Lowell, and Carolyn Willard
Why does a scoop of ice cream float in root beer? The answers
to this and other questions of youthful empirical concern surface
in this unit of substance.
Secret formulas, salt solutions, color layering in liquid,
and other activities and demonstrations of density reinforce
students' practical understanding of this important concept
in the physical sciences. From their understanding of density
in liquids, students learn to infer the relative densities of
solids and gases. As appropriate, the mathematical equation
for determining density is introduced.
A number of "puzzling scenarios" encourage students
to explore real-life connections to this pervasive property.
Can be used as an excellent introductory unit to the GEMS guide
Convection: A Current Event.
Time: Five 25- to 50-minute sessions, plus possible follow-up
sessions.
NSTA Recommends Discovery
Density
"Discovering Density is the tool that science educators
have been looking for.... The authors have clearly and explicitly
outlined the background knowledge, procedures, and data collection
worksheets to aid the teacher in presenting these lessons....Overall,
this practical handbook provides interesting, relevant, and
very "doable" activities for middle school and junior
high school students."
—National Science Teachers Association Recommends
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What materials are needed to present this unit? See the full list. |
