With many states moving to the Common Core Standards, I can't think of a better way to integrate learning. By teaching science through fun with bubbles kiddos of all ages can engage in reading. Whether reading the Mercer Mayer picture book Bubbles Bubbles, or more factual information with The Science of Soap Films and Soap Bubbles by Cyril Isenberg reading is an important part of science.
Take it one step further and bring writing into the picture! Because you allow for hands-on learning through bubbles, kids can draw on their experiences and ignite their imagination for story writing. Some might find it fun to create their own bubble recipe and "how to" directions for using their special formula. Reading and writing wrapped in with listening and speaking skills can all be brought together through basic and FUN science experiments. Below are the directions for making Elephant's Toothpaste and I've also attached a link with some great bubble recipes.
Have a BUBBLE-icious day!!!
Miss Science
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Supplies:
- Clean 16 oz. plastic soda bottle (those with a narrow neck work best)
- 1/2 cup 20-volume hydrogen peroxide (liquid) from a beauty supplier such as Sally's Beauty Supply.
- 1 TBS of dry yeast
-3 TBS of warm water
- Liquid dish soap
- Food coloring
- Small cup
- Funnel
- Spoon
- Safety goggles
- A large cake pan to gather the foam
-Towels and more towels for clean-up
Procedure: Safety goggles are a must....Put them on 1st!
1. Using your funnel, carefully pour the hydrogen peroxide into the bottle.
2. Add 5-8 drops of food coloring. For multiple colors tip the bottle slightly and allow color to run down the sides of the bottle.
3. Add approximately 1 tablespoon (or count to 5) of dish soap to the bottle and gently mix by swishing the liquid around.
4. In the cup combine water and yeast. Mix with a spoon for 30-45 seconds.
READY, SET...GO!
Now pour the yeast mixture into the bottle (be sure to use your funnel), step back and watch what happens!
WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!
Hydrogen Peroxide contains 2 oxygen atoms (unlike water that contains only 1) and the hydrogen peroxide that is used in this experiment (6%) is stronger than normal drugstore or 3% hydrogen peroxide. Unlike blowing a regular bubble, Elephant's Toothpaste creates a multitude of bubbles (or foam) by using the yeast as a catalyst (or helper) to remove the oxygen from the hydrogen peroxide. Not only were thousands of bubbles (or foam created) but you also created an EXOTHERMIC REACTION! Touch the bottle and it is warm!
Now Experiment!
What you just did is a demonstration because I gave you all the directions. Now you can make it an experiment by answering your own questions (or hypothesis.)
Examples:
What would happen if I added more dish soap?
Would using a different bottle make a difference in how much foam I produce?
Homemade Bubble Solutions Check out these great recipes to create some amazing bubbles. Then create your own solution!
