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earth science

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

May 19, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

A desert sensory bin is a fun way to introduce your toddlers and preschoolers to desert animals and the characteristics of the desert.

A sensory bin is like a buildable interactive diorama for younger children that lets them explore their senses and whatever the topic is you have chosen for them to learn about.

In this case it is a desert sensory bin to discover the dry, sandy climate and some of the animals that make their home there.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

During the day, the desert sun is very strong, and it gets super-hot.

But when the sun goes down at night, the desert can get very chilly.

So, the animals and plants have to be ready for big changes in temperature. It’s like two different worlds in one amazing place.

BOOKS ABOUT THE DESERT FOR KIDS

Too, look at these books about the desert.

When possible we prefer learning through living books so I add them as I find them.

18 Desert Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these living books and references books about the desert to your library.

The Seed & the Giant Saguaro

Children's reader on the subject of deserts and what lives there Large book with very large kid friendly illustrations

Cactus Hotel (Rise and Shine)

It is another hot day in the desert. Birds and other animals scurry about looking for food. When they get tired they stop to rest at a giant cactus. It is their hotel in the desert!Many different animals live in the cactus hotel. It protects them; and they protect it, by eating the pests that could harm the cactus.The cactus grows larger and larger and will live for about two hundred years. When one animal moves out, another moves in. There is never a vacancy in the cactus hotel.This story--about a desert, a giant cactus, and the animals who live in it--is one that even the youngest child will understand and enjoy.

Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus

A venerable saguaro cactus stands like a statue in the hot desert landscape, its armlike branches reaching fifty feet into the air. From a distance it appears to be completely still and solitary--but appearances can be deceptive. In fact, this giant tree of the desert is alive with activity. Its spiny trunk and branches are home to a surprising number of animals, and its flowers and fruit feed many desert dwellers. Gila woodpeckers and miniature elf owls make their homes inside the saguaro's trunk. Long-nosed bats and fluttering white doves drink the nectar from its showy white flowers. People also play a role in the saguaro's story: each year the Tohono O'odham Indians gather its sweet fruit in a centuries-old harvest ritual.

Where Is the Sahara Desert?

Imagine over three million square miles of sand dunes that are as tall as a ten-story building. That place is real -- it's the Sahara Desert! Vast, yes! And home to fascinating creatures such as ostriches and fennec foxes as well as amazing plant life. The shallow roots of the mesquite tree can grow almost 200 feet across to absorb water. Readers will also learn about the famous trade routes of the past with caravans of up to 10,000 camels, European explorers to the region (some very unlucky ones), and native populations like the Berber and Tuareg, the faces of the men are blue from the dye in the veils they always wear.

Where Is Antarctica?

Antarctica, the earth's southernmost continent, was virtually untouched by humans until the nineteenth century. Many famous explorers journeyed (and often died) there in the hope of discovering a land that
always seemed out of reach. This book introduces readers to this
desert--yes, desert!--continent that holds about 90 percent of the
world's ice; showcases some of the 200 species that call Antarctica
home, including the emperor penguin; and discusses environmental dangers to the continent, underscoring how what happens to Antarctica affects the entire world.

A Desert Scrapbook: Dawn to Dusk in the Sonoran Desert

In the early morning hours, an artist stirs. Gathering her paints and notebook, she heads into the Arizona Sonoran Desert to explore its treasures. Sketching, painting, and writing, she records all that she sees and as night falls, she spreads out her pictures to make this scrapbook of her day, from dawn to dusk.

This Place Is Dry: Arizona's Sonoran Desert

Surveys the living conditions in Arizona's Sonora Desert for the people and unusual animals that live there. Also describes the engineering accomplishment of Hoover Dam.

Desert Solitaire

In Desert Solitaire, Edward Abbey recounts his many escapades, adventures, and epiphanies as an Arches National Park ranger outside Moab, Utah. Brimming with arresting insights, impassioned arguments for wilderness conservation, and a raconteur’s wit, it is one of Abbey’s most critically acclaimed works.   Through stories and philosophical musings, Abbey reflects on the condition of our remaining wilderness, the future of a civilization, and his own internal struggle with morality. As the world continues its rapid development, Abbey’s cry to maintain the natural beauty of the West remains just as relevant today as when this book first appeared in 1968.

Coyote Raid In Cactus Canyon

While the rest of the animals hide from view from a group of rambunctious coyotes, the fearless gang takes full advantage of the open space of Cactus Canyon and participates with great zeal in an array of nighttime activities, but an unexpected encounter with a rattlesnake quickly puts an end to the coyotes fun as they are sent running for cover, too!

Roxaboxen

Marian called it Roxaboxen. There across the road, it looked like any rocky hill—nothing but sand and rocks, and some old wooden boxes. But it was a special place. And all children needed to go there was a long stick and a soaring imagination.

Why Oh Why Are Deserts Dry? All About Deserts

n this latest installation of the Cat in the Hat's Learning Library, the Cat takes Sally and Dick to explore different kinds of deserts around the world,  from the hot, dry Sonoran and Mojavi to the bitter cold Gobi and Antarctica. Young readers learn why deserts are dry, and how plants and animals—including cactus, kangaroos, camels, penguins, roadrunners, and many others—have adapted to survive the unforgiving climate. Also included: how sand dunes are formed; the reason we see mirages, and how shallow water beneath the surface of the ground can create an oasis. Fans of the new PBS preschool science show The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! (which is based on the Learning Library series) won't want to miss this hot new addition to the series!

One Day in the Desert

‘A wounded mountain lion moves from his mountain habitat to a Papago Indian hut in Arizona’s Sonoran desert during a record-breaking July day. All creation adapts to the blistering heat until a cloudburst causes a flash flood. With a measured yet vivid style, this introduction to desert ecology makes a memorable impact."

Deserts

This intriguing yet simple description will captivate young readers who have an interest in the unfamiliar.

A Walk in the Desert (Biomes of North America)

Take a walk through the desert. This hot, dry biome of the southwest is full of life. How do plants and animals of the desert live? As you wander through the desert, discover how each and every plant and animal relies on the others to live and grow.

Wildlife of the Southwest Deserts

Learn about the fascinating creatures of the desert Southwest including: Venomous Animals Insects and Arthropods Rattlesnakes, Lizards, Desert Tortoise The Roadrunner and other Birds Bighorn Sheep, Kit Fox, Coyote.

Indian Uses of Desert Plants

Now in its fourth edition, this is a beautiful book with both historical and contemporary images showing the most important plants used by Native Americans. Medicinal, food resources, tools and shelter are just some of the uses discussed. Plants shown and described are among the most widespread plants in the desert Southwest.

Desert Snakes

Learn all about desert snakes with the beautiful book by James W. Cornett.

The Namib Desert

An excellent introduction to the natural history of the Namib Desert of southwest Africa. At its heart, second only to the Atacama Desert of Chile and Peru as the driest place on Earth. Also, it is the oldest desert on our planet and the only desert with a megafauna including elephant, giraffe, and rhinoceros. The lofty orange dunes, highest in the world, are also shown and discussed.

Also, many animals make their home in the desert. Some animals, like camels, are big and strong.

Others, like lizards, are small and speed, they all have special ways to stay cool and find food in the desert.

 Let’s learn about some of these “cool” desert animals

DESERT ANIMALS

CAMELS

  • Often called “ships of the desert” due to their endurance.
  • Humps- Store fat reserves for energy, not water. Enables survival during limited food.
  • Long Eyelashes- Protect eyes from sand, maintaining visibility in dust storms.
  • Wide Feet- Improve movement on sand by distributing weight and preventing sinking.

LIZARDS

  • Prefer sun exposure and basking on rocks.
  • Scales: Provide protection, thermoregulation, and camouflage.
  • Tail: Some can detach their tail as a defense mechanism; it regenerates.
  • Food: Diets vary, including insects, plants, and small vertebrates.

SNAKES

  • Move via slithering.
  • Skin: Scaly, shed periodically for growth and repair.
  • Tongue: Used as a chemosensory organ for detecting stimuli and prey.
  • Food: Varying diets, swallowing prey whole.

SCORPIONS

  • Possess an exoskeleton and venomous stinger.
  • Claws-Used for prey capture.
  • Stinger- Used for venom injection in predation or defense.
  • Nighttime-Mostly active at night to avoid heat.

VULTURES

  • Vultures are big birds that help keep the desert clean. They eat animals that have died.
  • Wings-They can fly very high in the sky and can see far distances.
  • Heads-Their bald heads help keep them clean when they eat.
  • Groups-Vultures often fly in groups called kettles.

MEERKATS

  • Food-Opportunistic omnivores, eating insects, small vertebrates, and plants.
  • Live in social groups called mobs or gangs.
  • Group Living- Enhances predator detection, defense, and offspring rearing.
  • Lookouts- Individuals act as sentinels, surveying for threats.
How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Then look at these activities to learn more about the desert.

DESERT ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

  • Check out these 8 Desert Craft Ideas | How To Make Egg Carton Cactus to focus a bit on the flora of the desert biome.
  • Get little ones active while still on theme with these Desert Themed Yoga ideas.
  • 7 Desert Crafts For Kids: How To Make A Clay Cactus Jewelry Holder
  • Watch the video What Animals Live in the Desert? To learn more about some of the most common creatures who live there.
  • Exploring Edible Cactus: Hands-on Learning (The Desert)
  • Build fine motor skills while you work on bending and folding paper with Scorpion Origami.
  • The book based Camel Race STEAM Activity Inspired by The Wooden Camel gets kids thinking critically.
  • Easy Desert Animal Crafts And A Scorpion Creation
  • Memory games are great for strengthening various cognitive skills, including memory, attention, focus, and problem-solving. Here are Free Printable Shape Matching Games for Desert Theme that also incorporate early math.
  • Explore 3 completely different desert habitats and learn How to Make A Desert Triorama About the Gobi, Sahara, & Antarctica to display the flora and fauna of each.
  • While you are learning about snakes of the desert here is a fun craft Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool to learn about this aspect of snakes.

 

Of course a good reference book nearby is important as well. Both Nature Anatomy and Wildlife Anatomy are a treasure trove of information for little learners on up to upper grades.

HOW TO CREATE AN ENGAGING DESERT SENSORY BIN

I recommend including your child in the creation of the sensory bin from the start so you can talk about the characteristics of each element as you put them in place.

You will need:

  • Safari Desert Animals
  • Sensory Bin Tub
  • Play Sand
  • Small pebbles
  • Air dry clay, paint

Start with a good sized bin.

You can use anything you have on hand but I really like to use stackable sensory bins like those I listed above.

You can put a variety of base filler like sand, rice, pebbles, and more, leaving them to be turned into an amazing themed sensory bin.

Add sand until it’s about halfway full.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

You can leave it just sand or add some small pebbles or rocks to give it more texture and of course sorting possibilities.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

If you would like to add a few cactus plants you can make some with air dry clay ahead of time and paint them green, add some broken toothpick pieces for spikes.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Set a few cacti in place.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Place plastic desert animals in the sensory bin.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Other items I like to include with a sensory bin are small cups or bowls, slotted spoons, small strainers, and even flash cards with animals related to the topic.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Finally, look at a few more sensory bins.

SENSORY BINS

  • Sensory Play Made Easy: Crafting a Community Helpers Sensory Bin
  • How To Create An Engaging Cranberry Sensory Bin
  • 10 Kindergarten Sensory Bin Ideas | How To Make A Summer Sensory Bin
  • Discover The Magic Of Nocturnal Creatures | Nocturnal Animal Sensory Bin
  • How to Make a Watermelon Sensory Bin for Play and Learning
  • 9 Hands on Weather Activities for Kids and Awesome Weather Sensory Tray
  • Fun Corn Life Cycle Preschool Sensory Bin and Printable Lifecycle Foldout

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: desert, earth science, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschool, life science, science

Layers Of The Earth Easy Quick Study For Kids

March 15, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a layers of the earth easy quick study for kids who just want the facts. Also, look at my Free Earth Science Lapbook & Unit Study Ideas.

Studying about the layers earth easy study eventually moves into other topics like volcanoes and magnetic fields.

And understanding how the layers work matters because they explain how the Earth works.

Layers Of The Earth Easy Quick Study For Kids

And to learn how scientists study the Earth’s layers using special tools like seismographs which measure earthquakes to learn about what’s inside.

Too when kids learn the layers of the Earth, the crust, mantle, and core it helps explain why earthquakes happen and how volcanoes erupt.

Whether you’re interested in volcanoes, oceans, or the weather, earth science helps you appreciate our planet.

Next, look at some earth science books.

EARTH SCIENCE BOOKS FOR KIDS

9 Books for Kids Who Love to Read About Earth Science Topics

Add these books to your learning day to learn about various earth science topics.

The Story Book of Science (Yesterday's Classics)

The wonders of plant and animal life told with rare literary charm by Uncle Paul in conversations with three children. Besides such stories as the ants' subterranean city, the spider's suspension bridge, and the caterpillars' processing, he unlocks the mystery behind thunder and lightning, clouds and rain, the year and its seasons, and volcanoes and earthquakes. Suitable for ages 9 to 12.

Earthquakes (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Some earthquakes are so small that you don’t even feel them, while others can make even big buildings shake. Learn why earthquakes happen, where they are most likely to occur, and what to do if one happens near you. 

Now with updated text and art, this classic picture book describes the causes and effects of earthquakes (including a tsunami). This book features rich vocabulary and fascinating cross-sections of mountains, volcanoes, and faults in the earth’s moving crust.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. The text and art were vetted by Dr. Roland Burgmann, Professor of the Department of Earth and Planetary Science at the University of California, Berkeley.

The First Book of the Earth

A republication of the 1958 book by Irene Sevrey with illustrations by Mildred Waltrip, The First Book of the Earth is an elementary level natural history book that was written during a time when children's books held a student's interest and imagination because they were "living" rather than simply based on factoids and vivid pictures. It is a wonderful introduction to the subject of geology and covers the earth as a planet in the solar system and the physics of how it circles the sun, thereby defining our days and years. It then moves on to describing the earth's origin as scientists understand it and takes up the topics of the earth's composition, its structure, molecular makeup, rock families, minerals, volcanoes and earthquakes, mountains and their formation, and how glaciers and rivers affect the shaping of the earth's surface. The book ends by briefly discussing dinosaurs and the possible aging techniques used to date the earth's age in terms of epochs or periods.

Rocks, Gems and Minerals: A Fully Illustrated, Authoritative and Easy-to-Use Guide (A Golden Guide from St. Martin's Press)

This handy identification guide to the most common kinds of rocks and minerals offers concise and fascinating information on:- Physical and chemical properties- Origins and geologic significance- Gems and semiprecious stones- How to find and collect specimens

Earth: An Intimate History

Beginning with Mt. Vesuvius, whose eruption in Roman times helped spark the science of geology, and ending in a lab in the West of England where mathematical models and lab experiments replace direct observation, Richard Fortey tells us what the present says about ancient geologic processes. He shows how plate tectonics came to rule the geophysical landscape and how the evidence is written in the hills and in the stones. And in the process, he takes us on a wonderful journey around the globe to visit some of the most fascinating and intriguing spots on the planet.

The First Book of Caves

A book about caves with drawings for young readers with a vocabulary list and definition at the end.

Rocks and Minerals: A Guide of Familiar Minerals, Gems, Ores, and Rocks (A Golden Nature Guide)

A guide to familiar minerals, gems, ores, and rocks enhanced by 400 full color illustrations. Provides much geological knowledge in how to look for surface forms, rocks, minerals etc. Includes information for the searcher and an useful list of clubs and organizations. Excellent bibliography and index.

A Whale of the Wild (A Voice of the Wilderness Novel)

For Vega and her family, salmon is life. And Vega is learning to be a salmon finder, preparing for the day when she will be her family’s matriarch. But then she and her brother Deneb are separated from their pod when a devastating earthquake and tsunami render the seascape unrecognizable. Vega must use every skill she has to lead her brother back to their family. The young orcas face a shark attack, hunger, the deep ocean, and polluted waters on their journey. Will Vega become the leader she’s destined to be?

Rocks, Rivers, and the Changing Earth: A first book about geology

A living book on the living earth. Told in a conversational style, the book discusses the topics of geology and provides ideas for investigations and demonstrations of the scientific principles. Illustrated throughout, this book is a favorite as an introduction to geology for young readers. This edition includes updated science information on plate tectonics and the structure of the earth.

Also, look at more hands on activities to along with the layers of the earth easy study.

LAYERS OF THE EARTH SCIENCE ACTIVITIES

  • Fun Metamorphic Edible Rocks & Notebooking Pages
  • Oceans Unit Study and Lapbook
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit
  • Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • How To Make A DIY Lava Lamp Lesson Plan
  • Simple and Fun Hands-On Water Cycle Activity For Kids
  • How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity
  • 10 Hands On Earthquake Activities | How To Make A Model Seismometer
Layers Of The Earth Easy Quick Study For Kids

Next, look what is included in this download.

ABOUT THE LAYERS OF THE EARTH EASY QUICK STUDY FOR KIDS

  • (3) informational pages
  • (2) 1 label page and answers
  • (2) Layers of the earth matching and answers
  • (2) Fill in the blank page and answers

HOW TO USE THE EARTH LAYERS QUICK STUDY

Because this is a quick study, use it to teach your lessons for a few days when you add the hands-on activities listed below.

Most elementary children will be able to do this on their on.

Use it for:

  • independent study for your elementary aged children
  • use them to add to a lapbook. Grab my free Earth Science lapbook and add your pages there. Look at my post How to Turn Boring Worksheets into Fun Minibooks – From Boring to Interactive to fold your worksheets to add to a lapbook.
  • Also, fold the pages as minibooks and add to your notebooks.

HOW TO GET THE LAYERS OF EARTH QUICK STUDY

You can download the printable quick study of the layers of earth now!

All my products are digital. You will not receive a physical product for anything in my store.

Downloads are INSTANT. When you pay, you will receive an email with a download link INSTANTLY. Depending on your internet connection, the email could be just 30 seconds or so, or a bit longer. The point is it will be soon, not a week later,etc.

Layers Of The Earth Easy Quick Study For Kids
  • Quick And Easy Study: Layers Of The Earth Facts For Kids

    Quick And Easy Study: Layers Of The Earth Facts For Kids

    $2.00
    Add to cart

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: earth science, earthscience, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, science

4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

February 19, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Here is a free 4-weeks physical science unit study that covers 4 of the main branches of physical science and covers a wide variety of ages. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more unit studies.

Physical science is an exciting field of study that explores the fundamental properties of matter and energy and their interactions.

It is an important part of your child’s science education.

It encompasses various branches and covers topics like physics, chemistry, astronomy, earth science (including geology and meteorology).

4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

And other subtopics are considered physical science like energy, forces, motion, electricity, magnetism, sound, light, and the study of matter.

One of the best overall resources for our bookshelf is The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia as it is a great reference for a wide variety of science topics.

For our 4-weeks physical science unit I am going to give you fun resources as well as plenty of hands-on activities for each of the 4 main branches of physical science.

BOOKS ABOUT PHYSICAL SCIENCE FOR KIDS

First, look at these books to pair with the topics in physical science.

10 Books About Physical Science

Physical science varies in topic. It can cover states of matter, forces and motion like push and pull, forms of energy like simple circuits, light and sound to earth and space.

What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

Can you make an ice cube disappear? Put it on a hot sidewalk. It melts into water and then vanishes! The ice cube changes from solid to liquid to gas. This Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out picture book is a fascinating exploration of the three states of matter. This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams to explain the difference between solids, liquids, and gases. This book also includes a find out more section with experiments designed to encourage further exploration and introduce record keeping.

Matter: Physical Science for Kids

In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and
laboratories

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why is gallium (Ga, 31) the go-to element for laboratory pranksters?The Periodic Table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, betrayal, and obsession. These fascinating tales follow every element on the table as they play out their parts in human history, and in the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. The Disappearing Spoon masterfully fuses science with the classic lore of invention, investigation, and discovery.

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Junior Science Book of Electricity

Book about electricity for children.

Energy Makes Things Happen

Did you know that energy comes from the food you eat? From the sun and wind? From fuel and heat? You get energy every time you eat. You transfer energy to other things every time you play baseball.

Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a prism turns ordinary sunlight into a rainbow? Isaac Newton knew why. How can a magnet be used to generate electricity? Michael Faraday could have told you. Can you explain how a toaster toasts bread? In this book, author Paul Fleisher answers these and many more questions as he looks at the laws that describe how waves behave. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of light, electricity and magnetism in a fun, exciting way.

Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a 10-tonne boat floats but a tiny pebble sinks? Archimedes knew why. How does a basketball or tennis ball bounce? Robert Boyle could have described how! Can you explain why a hot-air balloon rises but a balloon you blow up drops to the ground? To answer these questions and many more, author Paul Fleisher explains the laws that define how and why liquids and gases behave the way they do. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of fluid mechanics in a fun, exciting way.

Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Explains the concepts of simple and complex machines and mechanical advantage, and describes how wheels, including gears and ball bearings, work

Then we’re moving on to the 4 main areas.

First, start with chemistry.

CHEMISTRY PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

Chemistry is about the science of matter.

Too, chemistry deals with the composition, structure, properties, and behavior of matter and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions.

Then look at these hands-on ideas.

  • 2 Fun Chemistry for Kids Experiments & John Dalton Notebooking Pages
  • 10 Facts About Oxygen For Kids | How To Do An Underwater Flame Experiment |Free Printable
  • 21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids
  • 10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum
  • How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable
  • Medieval Chemistry and Homeschool History – Fun Hands-On Activity
  • Homeschool High School Chemistry & Free Reference Sheet and Resources

ASTRONOMY PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Next, astronomy focuses on celestial objects and phenomena beyond Earth, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae.

  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Space Science Experiment ~ Exploring one of Jupiter’s Moons
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids

EARTH PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

 Earth science investigates the Earth’s systems, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere.

  • Landslide Science Experiment to Teach Fast Earth Changes
  • Free Earth Science Lapbook & Unit Study Ideas
  • 10 Hands On Earthquake Activities | How To Make A Model Seismometer
  • Edible Rock Cycle Fudge | Hands-on Rock Activities & Free Notebooking Pages
  • Free Homeschool Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode
  • Geoscavenge – A Rock and Mineral Hunt & Printable
  • Physical Science For Kindergarten: Free States Of Matter Pages
  • How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity
  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit
  • Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  • 8 Earth Day Facts | How to Make a Recycled Robot
  • Dive Into STEM Learning With An Exciting Jello Earthquake Experiment

PHYSICS PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 4

Then, physics studies the fundamental laws and properties of the universe, from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies.

And physics is the study of motion, energy, and forces, Too, it helps us understand how and why things move or stay still.

  • Ridiculously Easy Friction Science Experiment Your Kids Will Love
  • It’s Electric! How to Explore the Conductivity of Liquids
  • Paper Airplane Science – An Experiment Designed and Tested by Your Kids
  • How to Make a Homemade Electrical Switch
  • The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids
  • Electricity STEM: Lighting Up a Shoebox Tiny House
  • 5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment
  • How To Make A Newton’s Cradle With Popsicle Sticks | 5 Sir Isaac Newton Facts
  • Easy Atom Model Project: How To Create A Fun Lego Version
  • Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment
  • Electricity Hands-On Homeschool Science Activity
4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

And then look at these other best homeschool unit studies.

MORE BEST HOMESCHOOL UNIT STUDIES

  • How Do Sharks Float STEM Activity Free Shark Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano
  • Homeschool Unit Study Egg to Sea Turtle Lesson Plans & Lapbook
  • 5 Fun Candy Science Experiments and Unit Study & Homemade Lollipops
  • Deer Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode
  • Coral Reef Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  • Printable Strawberries Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Weather Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning
  • Easy Seeds and Gardening Unit Study for Kids (Middle – Upper Elementary)
  • Carnivorous Plants Lapbook and Homeschool Unit Study
  • Seashore Watching Unit Study and Beach Lapbook

Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: earth science, elementary science, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, high school science, homeschool, homeschoolscience, life science, physical science, physics, science

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

February 13, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re doing an easy sink or float orange density experiment for kids. Also, look at my page 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas for more activities.

The sink or float orange density experiment is an easy activity that helps kids grasp important science concepts in a hands-on way.

Plus, it’s a hands-on way to introduce other scientific methods like predicting, testing, observing, and analyzing results.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

After the experiment, your child should be able to understand that the density of an object determines whether it floats or sinks.

But what is density? First, talk about the misconception that that heavy things sink and light things float.

There must be something more to sinking and floating than size or weight.

So density means the relationship between the mass of the substance and how much space it takes up (volume).

PHYSICAL SCIENCE BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at the books for kid about physical science.

10 Books About Physical Science

Physical science varies in topic. It can cover states of matter, forces and motion like push and pull, forms of energy like simple circuits, light and sound to earth and space.

What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

Can you make an ice cube disappear? Put it on a hot sidewalk. It melts into water and then vanishes! The ice cube changes from solid to liquid to gas. This Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out picture book is a fascinating exploration of the three states of matter. This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams to explain the difference between solids, liquids, and gases. This book also includes a find out more section with experiments designed to encourage further exploration and introduce record keeping.

Matter: Physical Science for Kids

In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and
laboratories

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why is gallium (Ga, 31) the go-to element for laboratory pranksters?The Periodic Table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, betrayal, and obsession. These fascinating tales follow every element on the table as they play out their parts in human history, and in the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. The Disappearing Spoon masterfully fuses science with the classic lore of invention, investigation, and discovery.

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Junior Science Book of Electricity

Book about electricity for children.

Energy Makes Things Happen

Did you know that energy comes from the food you eat? From the sun and wind? From fuel and heat? You get energy every time you eat. You transfer energy to other things every time you play baseball.

Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a prism turns ordinary sunlight into a rainbow? Isaac Newton knew why. How can a magnet be used to generate electricity? Michael Faraday could have told you. Can you explain how a toaster toasts bread? In this book, author Paul Fleisher answers these and many more questions as he looks at the laws that describe how waves behave. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of light, electricity and magnetism in a fun, exciting way.

Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a 10-tonne boat floats but a tiny pebble sinks? Archimedes knew why. How does a basketball or tennis ball bounce? Robert Boyle could have described how! Can you explain why a hot-air balloon rises but a balloon you blow up drops to the ground? To answer these questions and many more, author Paul Fleisher explains the laws that define how and why liquids and gases behave the way they do. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of fluid mechanics in a fun, exciting way.

Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Explains the concepts of simple and complex machines and mechanical advantage, and describes how wheels, including gears and ball bearings, work

Also, look at some activities about physical science and density experiments for kids.

MORE PHYSICAL SCIENCE & DENSITY EXPERIMENTS FOR KIDS

  • Quick Unit Study & Easy Salt water Density Ocean Science Experiments For Kindergarten
  • Hot and Cold Water Density Experiment
  • Learn about the layers of density in this How to Make a Cool Fibonacci Lemonade and 8 Things to Learn about Fibonacci activity.
  • Skittle Density Experiment
  • How Do Sharks Float STEM Activity Free Shark Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Density Experiment for Kids
The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Finally, look at this easy sink or float orange density experiment for kids.

ORANGE SINK OR FLOAT EXPERIMENT

First, look at this easy list of supplies for the wow factor.

  • 2 mandarin or naval oranges
  • 2 containers. Use glass for better visibility.
  • water

First, gather all supplies needed.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Fill both containers with water but leave room at the top to prevent them from overflowing when the oranges are introduced.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Peel one orange and leave the other orange unpeeled.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Then place the unpeeled orange in one container.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Place the peeled orange into the other container.

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

What are the results?

The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids

Why does this happen?

When an orange is placed in water with the peel still on it will float.

It floats because the peel has air pockets making it less dense than the water.

Imagine the peel as a little lifejacket for the orange.

A peeled orange will sink because the peel is removed making the orange denser than the water.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: density, earth science, earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, oranges, science

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

January 13, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The great barrier reef is an amazing model for an ecosystem triorama, showing a colorful slice of the underwater ecosystem. Also, look at my pages Trioramas: How To Create Engaging Visual Narratives For Kids for more ideas and Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning.

The great barrier reef is considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

So, for this triorama we took a trip to the craft store.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

What I enjoyed about this method of creating the triorama is that even younger children who can’t write or draw well can still easily make a beautiful reef display.

The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is swarming with an astounding variety of fish species.

It shows an incredible biodiversity of this underwater ecosystem, each playing their part in keeping it healthy.

Even if you’ve never experienced it up close you can see videos, pictures or books full of the wonders that can be found there.

BOOKS ABOUT THE GREAT BARRIER REEF FOR KIDS

First, look at these books about the great barrier reef to add this hands-on activity today.

5 Great Barrier Reef Books

Add some of these fun books about the Great Barrier Reef to your home library.

The Great Barrier Reef (Earth's Incredible Places)

Vibrant, dynamic illustrations illuminate this enchanting place, its animal inhabitants, and the peoples who have embraced it as a centerpiece of their cultures. Learn all about how the reef came to be, its place in the world, and perhaps most importantly, what we can all do to help ensure that The Great Barrier Reef will be around for countless future generations to discover!

The World of Coral Reefs: Explore and Protect the Natural Wonders of the Sea

Coral reefs occupy less than 1% of the ocean floor, but they support 25% of all marine species with food and shelter. In this lavishly illustrated book for ages 7 to 10, marine ecologist and underwater explorer Erin Spencer provides fascinating, scientific information in a highly accessible format, including details about the
types of coral, their anatomy and life cycle, where they live, how reefs develop, and the incredible diversity of marine animals that live among them, including aquarium favorites like clownfish, royal blue tangs, and sea turtles. Kids learn about the interdependent relationships of people and reefs and how human behavior puts reefs in danger, promising conservation work that scientists are undertaking, and solution-oriented ways kids and families can help in the effort. 

Where Is the Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Australia, is the world's largest coral reef system. Stretching more than 1,400 miles, it provides a home to a wide diversity of creatures. Designated a World Heritage Site, the reef is suffering from the effects of climate change but this fascinating book shows this spectacular part of our planet.

The Mystery on the Great Barrier Reef (Around the World in 80 Mysteries (Paperback))

It's a trip Down Under for Christina, 10, Grant, 7, and their mystery-writing grandmother Mimi! Lots of surprises and mysterious activities unfold as the group travels through the Outback, Queensland, and finally to the Great Barrier Reef. During a glass-bottom boat ride, they discover more than coral and fish under the water-scuba divers and flesh-tearing moray eel lurk beneath their boat! They shudder at the eerie screech of the Tasmanian devil and brave the awesome Australian Outback (and Aborigines!) at night. Watch and wonder as Grant ends up in the Camel Cup camel race- will he make it to the finish line? Don't miss a moment of excitement in Christina and Grant's Australian adventure! Download free activities for this book!

Coral Reef

Hardy adventurers ages 6 - 9 dive into a silent watery world where tiny coral animals grow together to form rock gardens of white, pink, and red-orange. In this action-packed undersea circus, jaws snap, tentacles sting, ink gets squirted, and fish suddenly glow while animals that look like plants sway gently and bashful clams hide the lively secrets inside their shells. Surprisingly dry and armed with a few pieces of equipment and their boundless imaginations, children explore this magical realm one small square at a time. "Science education at its best." ― Science Books and Films

Let’s look at some of these fish and the parts they play among the coral.

FISH OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF ECOSYSTEM

  • Clownfish are instantly recognizable by their bright orange and white stripes. They are small, agile fish that have a symbiotic relationship with anemones, finding protection within their stinging tentacles and, in turn, they help to keep the anemone clean and healthy.
  • Damselfish are known for their vibrant colors and territorial behavior. They play a key role in the reef’s food web, grazing on algae and providing a food source for larger fish.
  • Parrotfish have beak-like mouths and vivid hues, they also play a crucial role in maintaining the reef’s health by grazing on algae and contributing to sand production.
  • Surgeonfish are equipped with sharp spines on their tails, (which resembles a surgeon’s scalpel, hence the name). And they are known for their agility and territorial behavior.
  • Cod and tuna, also prized for their culinary value, can be found in the reef’s waters, attracting both sport fishermen and commercial fishing operations.
  • Butterflyfish, with their delicate patterns and graceful movements, are a delight to observe as they flit among the coral branches. They are specialized feeders, often targeting specific types of coral polyps or invertebrates.
  • Angelfish are adorned with striking colors and distinctive shapes, they definitely add to the visual spectacle of the reef. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of sponges, algae, and small invertebrates.
  • Snapper and grouper are popular targets of recreational and commercial fishing.  They are important predators that help regulate fish populations, feeding a variety of smaller fish and invertebrates.
The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

The reef also provides habitat for a variety of sharks and rays, including the manta ray and the whale shark.

These apex predators are yet another part of maintaining the delicate balance of the reef’s ecosystem.

Also, look at more coral reef activities.

HANDS-ON ECOSYSTEM TRIORAMA CORAL REEF ACTIVITIES

  • Exciting Books About the Great Barrier Reef| Faux Coral Craft
  • Fun Hands-on Coral Reef Activities and Play Dough Invitation to Play
  • Free Coral Reef Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • The Geronimo Stilton Series: Make a Fun Edible Coral Reef
  • Celebrate World Reef Day with a Blow Painting Coral Reef Hands-On Activity

Also, look at these other themed trioramas.

MORE TRIORAMAS

  • How to Make an Easy Rainforest Triorama With Kids
  • How to Make a Water, Land, and Sky Animal Habitat Triorama
  • How to Make an Amazing Shakespeare Triorama Book Report
  • How to Make a Cool Greek Mythology Triorama With Kids
  • How to Make a Giant Triorama Project About Cherokee Culture
  • How to Make A Desert Triorama About the Gobi, Sahara, & Antarctica
  • Amazing Geography Landforms: An Engaging Triorama Tutorial for Kids
  • How to Make a Triorama Teaching the Primary Colors with Dollar Tree Supplies
  • How To Build A Water Habitat Triorama With Kids
  • How to Craft a Stunning Wolf Animal Triorama
  • How to Make a Biome Triorama That Explores Alaska’s Amazing Features
  • How to Make a Native American Triorama Highlighting Tribes in 3 Regions
  • How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter
  • The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Finally, look at how to make this ecosystem triorama.

THE WONDERS OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF: AN ECOSYSTEM TRIORAMA

You will need:

  • Double Sided tape or glue stick
  • 12×12 cardstock
  • Scrap multi colored cardstock
  • Ocean animal/plant stickers
  • Letter stickers
  • Scissors
The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

First, as we do with all our trioramas, we are folding our square paper into a triangle and create a nice crease.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Next, unfold and repeat in the opposite direction.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Then, cut from one tip to the center of the folds and mark out one side that doesn’t need to be decorated (one on either side of the cut).

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Before folding and gluing it into a pyramid add letter stickers along one side to Spell out ‘Great Barrier Reef’ along one side.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Fold the pyramid and glue the X underneath.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Use colorful cardstock to cut out some various types of coral to give your triorama dimension, leaving a little extra space at the bottom.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Fold over enough of the bottom so that you can glue it onto the triorama base.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Attach with glue, adding them to the front, middle, and back of the base, I like to use a double sided tape dispenser for projects like this.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Now begin adding fish, putting some on the background.

Add them coming in and out of the corals and grasses as well.

The Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: An Ecosystem Triorama

Your child can go crazy adding fish and other sea creatures to show off the brimming with life Great Coral Reef ecosystem.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: earth science, earthscience, elementary science, great barrier reef, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, life science, science

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