Sun Magician

1. 1

   On a sunny day, investigate which objects melt in the sun.

2. 2

   First, ask your child to predict what might melt and what might stay the same.

3. 3

   Let them choose several objects, such as an ice cube, block, piece of chocolate, and bar of soap, and place each one in a separate paper cup.

4. 4

   Make a chart with the item names and two columns: “My Prediction” and “What Happened.” Before the experiment, mark each prediction with a check or an X.

5. 5

   Set the cups in sunlight and observe. When the ice melts, record the result with a symbol in the chart.

6. 6

   Some results may differ from the prediction. If the soap is still firm, record what you actually observed and compare it with the earlier guess.

What to notice

• Predicts whether an object might melt, then places it in the sun to test the idea Reasoning and Problem-Solving
• Finds more objects to test whether they melt in the sun Initiative and Curiosity

Tips

• Objects can take time to change in the sun. An hourglass or timer can show your child that the experiment will not produce an immediate result and make the wait more concrete.
• If the result differs from your child’s prediction, avoid saying, “That was wrong.” Try, “The experiment gave us a new answer!” This keeps the focus on observing and finding out.

Developmental benefits

• Cognitive: Making a prediction, observing what happens, and comparing the result gives your child practice using evidence to evaluate an idea and explain a conclusion.