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science

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

January 28, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Out of all the fun chemistry activities to do, how to make elephant toothpaste has to have the biggest wow factor.

Elephant toothpaste is a fantastic way to visualize chemical reactions.

And it produces a large amount of foam.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

First, why is it called elephant toothpaste?

Because afterwards it looks like a big tube of toothpaste which just exploded from the bottle – big enough for an elephant to use. It’s silly but fun.

Add some books and learn about the science behind elephant toothpaste.

Then add some more ideas I have below to make it a full blown (corny pun intended) chemistry day.

CHEMISTRY BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at some books.

12 Chemistry Books & Resources for Kids of All Ages

But first here are some resources that are a great introduction and more to chemistry for kids.

Superstars of Science

Discover fun facts about the greatest scientists from history through Basher's fresh and unique illustration style.

Did you know that Marie Curie used to keep radioactive materials in her pockets? Or that Mendeleyev literally dreamed up his famous periodic table? Superstars of Science tells the stories behind the big ideas in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, mathematics, cosmology, earth sciences, and engineering. Read about 40 great scientists including Newton and Einstein who produced theories that explained the way in which the Universe works, Crick and Watson who uncovered the structure of DNA, and Alexander Graham Bell who had the big idea that became the telephone. Each one of these greats of science has had some vital flash of insight that has changed the way we see the world and the way we live. Come meet the superstars of science!

Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction

Discover the secrets of chemistry, and learn about the properties of matter and the ways in which they interact, combine and change. Chemistry is a compelling guide to a community of characters who make up everything around us.

Crucibles: The Story of Chemistry from Ancient Alchemy to Nuclear Fission

This book is a classic in the field of popular science. Standard reading since the 1930s, it is one of the few histories of chemistry to concentrate on the lives of the great chemists. Through these dramatic and human stories, it gives an authoritative and entertaining account of the great discoveries and advances in this scientific field. After many printings in three previous editions, this book has been newly revised by the author for this fourth edition. Beginning with Trevisan and his lifelong search for the "philosopher's stone," the author narrates the lives and discoveries of such towering figures as Paracelsus and his chemical treatment of disease; Priestley looking for phlogiston and finding oxygen and carbon dioxide, Lavoisier creating a new language of chemistry; Dalton and his Atomic Theory; Avogadro and the idea of molecules, Mendeleeff arranging the table of elements under his Periodic Law; the Curies isolating radium; Thomson discovering the electron; Moseley and his Law of Atomic Numbers; Lawrence and the construction of the cyclotron; and more. Probably the most dramatic chapter in the book, the account of the development of nuclear fission, ends the story of chemistry at its most monumental achievement.

The Chemistry of Cola

You’ll be amazed at all you can learn from this favorite drink – what’s in it, why it fizzes, what you can do with it, the containers it’s in, and more!

Napoleon's Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History

Napoleon's Buttons is the fascinating account of seventeen groups of molecules that have greatly influenced the course of history. These molecules provided the impetus for early exploration, and made possible the voyages of discovery that ensued. The molecules resulted in grand feats of engineering and spurred advances in medicine and law; they determined what we now eat, drink, and wear. A change as small as the position of an atom can lead to enormous alterations in the properties of a substance-which, in turn, can result in great historical shifts.

52 Extreme Kids Chemistry Experiments Set - STEM Activities & Science Kits

If you want your child to be able to explore and complete some simple chemistry experiments without running around grabbing all the items an all in on kit is just the thing to add to your chemistry studies.

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 -- from the Big Bang through the end of time.

Chemistry Fluxx Card Game - Science Games Card Games for Kids

 Chemistry EditionChemistry Fluxx is the perfect compound of chance, skill and strategy-use atoms and laboratory tools to match the current goal of the game and win! The rules are always changing in Fluxx. The Keepers, Goals, Rules and Action cards determine how the game will be played.

Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments: All Lab, No Lecture (DIY Science)

For students, DIY hobbyists, and science buffs, who can no longer get real chemistry sets, this one-of-a-kind guide explains how to set up and use a home chemistry lab, with step-by-step instructions for conducting experiments in basic chemistry -- not just to make pretty colors and stinky smells, but to learn how to do real lab work:

  • Purify alcohol by distillation
  • Produce hydrogen and oxygen gas by electrolysis
  • Smelt metallic copper from copper ore you make yourself
  • Analyze the makeup of seawater, bone, and other common substances
  • Synthesize oil of wintergreen from aspirin and rayon fiber from paper
  • Perform forensics tests for fingerprints, blood, drugs, and poisons
  • and much more

The Joy of Chemistry: The Amazing Science of Familiar Things

Written for lay readers, provides an introduction to the principles of chemistry and includes quotations from popular literature to show how chemistry and everyday life intertwine.

The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry (Cartoon Guide Series)

If you have ever suspected that "heavy water" is the title of a bootleg Pink Floyd album, believed that surface tension is an anxiety disorder, or imagined that a noble gas is the result of a heavy meal at Buckingham Palace, then you need The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry to set you on the road to chemical literacy.

You don't need to be a scientist to grasp these and many other complex ideas, because The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry explains them all: the history and basics of chemistry, atomic theory, combustion, solubility, reaction stoichiometry, the mole, entropy, and much more—all explained in simple, clear, and yes, funny illustrations. Chemistry will never be the same!

Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned ... But Probably Didn't!

AIR IS NOT OXYGEN is a fun way to brush up on essential science concepts you missed in school. (Admit it. You probably thought you had better things to do than study!) Clear, short chapters focus on mastering key concepts instead of memorizing facts. Dozens of optional hands-on activities make science come alive! In a style described as “Dave Barry meets Bill Nye with a touch of the Mythbusters,” award-winning author, Bill Morelan, debunks common misconceptions about basic science. Reflecting both the National Science Content Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards, AIR IS NOT OXYGEN covers Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Science Methods.A fun, informative read, AIR IS NOT OXYGEN helps fill the gaps in your science education. (Never be humiliated by science geeks again!) Perfect for sharing, or as a handy basic reference tool. Makes a great book for kids, too.

Also, here are some more hands on ideas.

Be sure to grab the free notebooking pages and printable for this activity.

MORE FUN CHEMISTRY ACTIVITIES

  • 2 Fun Chemistry for Kids Experiments & John Dalton Notebooking Pages
  • How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter
  • How To Make A Fun Periodic Table Notes Game With Kids
  • Homeschool High School Chemistry & Free Reference Sheet and Resources for more ideas.
  • 21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids
  • 10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum
How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Also, look at the science behind the elephant toothpaste chemistry explosion.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND ELEPHANT TOOTHPASTE

The main ingredient in this experiment is hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Hydrogen peroxide is made up of water (H₂O) and extra oxygen molecules (O₂).

When yeast (containing a catalyst enzyme) is added to hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen and oxygen) oxygen molecules are rapidly released.

The dish soap that is added causes a foam reaction.

Note: You can use 3% or 6% hydrogen peroxide.

However, 12% gives a more impressive reaction. 3% or 6% could work but it might not have as much WOW factor

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Finally, look at how to make elephant toothpaste.

HOW TO MAKE ELEPHANT TOOTHPASTE

List of supplies:

  • ½ C 12% Hydrogen Peroxide (Note: 12% hydrogen peroxide can be purchased online or at Home Depot)
  • ¼ C warm water
  • Measuring cups
  • ¾ – 1 Tbsp activated yeast (or (1) ¼ oz activated yeast envelope)
  • 1 Tbsp Dawn dish soap
  • Food coloring
  • Latex gloves
  • Protective eyeglasses
  • Plastic bottle about 1L in size
  • Plastic tub with sides
  • Fork

Gather all the supplies needed.

Put on the latex gloves and eyeglasses and place the empty bottle into the empty tub.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Carefully pour hydrogen peroxide into the plastic bottles.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Then, add dawn dish soap to the peroxide.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

And slowly swirl the bottle to mix.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Add a few drops of food coloring to the lip of the plastic bottle.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Add the yeast to the warm water.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Then mix with a fork.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Slowly add the yeast to the water bottle.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Then cue the camera.

How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable

Enjoy the wow factor.

HOW TO GET THE FREE ELEPHANT TOOTHPASTE

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: chemistry, elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, science

Fun Groundhog Facts For Kids and Free Printable Games

January 22, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some fun groundhog facts for kids and free groundhog printable games. Also, look at my Quick Groundhog Day Unit Study and Fun Cupcake Activity for Kids.

We’re learning about the groundhog or as some people say “woodchucks.”

Learning about these furry creatures makes for a great unit study to do this time of the year.

Fun Groundhog Facts For Kids and Free Printable Games

Add a few cool books, learn some facts, play games and bake cupcakes is my kind of learning day.

Besides, groundhogs are about so much more than just predicting the weather.

They are part of the squirrel family, and they spend most of their time on the ground.

Next, look at some of these books about groundhogs.

BOOKS ABOUT GROUNDHOGS FOR KIDS

5 BOOKS ABOUT GROUNDHOGS

Add some of these fun books to your home library. How far away is spring?

Brownie Groundhog and the February Fox

Happy Groundhog Day! But when Brownie steps outside, there's not even the slightest sign of spring—just her shadow, a frosty field, and a hungry fox who wants to munch her for lunch. Determined not to become a meal, Brownie finds a clever and tasty way to melt the ice and turn Fox into a friend…and make the wait for winter's end a little warmer.

Groundhog Gets a Say

here’s so much more to being a groundhog than just putting on a show once a year, and Groundhog has decided it’s time to tell the world the Hog truth. With the help of a few of his fans, Groundhog is ready to tell everything about himself, from how loud he can whistle (loud), to how fast he can run (not fast), to how many things he uses his teeth for (a lot).

Wake Up, Groundhog! (Little Golden Book)

Anxious to know if spring will soon be sprung, the friends of Gregory Groundhog arrive one by one to rouse him from his cozy burrow on Groundhog Day, with very surprising results.

Punxsutawney Phyllis

Phyllis is not like other groundhogs. She loves to splash in the cold river in springtime, roast in the summer sun, tromp through the winter snow. Every kind of weather makes her happy. This year on February 2, she is excited because she can feel that an early spring is in the air. But how will she get Uncle Phil out of bed to make his official Punxsutawney Phil Groundhog Day prediction?

Groundhog Day! (New & Updated)

Every year on February 2nd, people all across the United States watch groundhogs come out of their burrows-- especially in the town of Punxsutawney-- trying to figure out if the weather will stay cold, or begin to warm up.In Groundhog Day!,
children's nonfiction master Gail Gibbons delves into the history behind this unusual holiday, and examines the ancient traditions that evolved into our modern holiday.

Next, look at these groundhog facts for kids.

GROUNDHOG FACTS FOR KIDS

  • They create amazing underground homes called burrows.
  • They can dig burrows that are 30 feet long and go deep underground.
  • Groundhogs have strong claws that help them dig through soil.
  • Groundhogs are herbivores, which means they only eat vegetables, grasses, and flowers.
  • Too, they are one of the few animals that truly hibernate in winter.
  • During hibernation, their heartbeats slow down, and they don’t need to eat much.
  • Groundhogs can run as fast as 10 miles per hour.
  • Besides they are good swimmers and climbers.
  • After waking up in the spring, a female groundhog will have a litter of baby groundhogs called pups.
  • They can live up to 6 years but with many predators they live only two or three years.

MORE ACTIVITIES ABOUT GROUNDHOGS, HIBERNATION & WINTER

  • Quick Groundhog Day Unit Study and Fun Cupcake Activity for Kids
  • Fun Winter Craft Ideas for Middle School Homeschool
  • Fun and Easy Preschool Hibernation Science Activities to Nurture Learning
  • Create an Easy and Fun Pine Cone Snowy Owl Winter Craft for Kindergarten with a pinecone harvested from your own backyard.
  • 5 Facts About Icicles | Beautiful Icicle Swag Craft
  • Winter Craft Ideas for Kids Animals in Winter Fun Snow Slime
Fun Groundhog Facts For Kids and Free Printable Games

Finally, look at how to get the free groundhog day printable games.

HOW TO GET THE FREE GROUNDHOG DAY PRINTABLE GAMES

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, groundhog, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science

Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study

January 21, 2025 | 15 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When we started our human body homeschool unit study we were excited to learn about all the free resources. Also, look at these other pages Best Homeschool Unit Studies and Fun Human Body Crafts for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning.

Too, our human body is an amazing and wonderful complex system.

And everyday it does amazing things like running, eating and healing.

Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study

However, all these free and wonderful human body homeschool unit study resources can be an unwieldy beast to tame as they took over my page.

That is unless they are organized of course so we can use them.

Plus, I don’t want you to miss out on any super duper ideas when you start your human body unit study.

Free Resources for Human Body Homeschool Unit Study

So I have organized the resources by grade where possible just to give you an idea of where to start and then by topic like craft or teacher guides.

Prek/K/Elementary

First, look at some resources for the elementary kids.

Besides, you know how I feel about grade levels, they’re just a guide but not what defines our kids.

  • Your Brain and Nervous System – Audio too.
  • Learn About Your Brain Activities by Ticia at Adventures in Mommydom
  • Free Printable Skeleton Game
  • Spelling by Picture – Fill in the blank spelling for human body
  • Free body minibook
  • Human Anatomy Notebooking for upper elementary to middle school
  • Muscular system hand craft 
  • Human Body T Shirt by Everyday Graces.
  • Sensory Touch Activity
  • Paint Your Organs T Shirt
  • Idea to print Doctor’s Bag
  • Human Senses Prek to 2 . 9 page .pdf Teacher’s Guide
  • Free Organ Cards
  • Skeletal System Unit Study
  • Learning About The Human Body Part 1: The Skeletal And Muscular Systems
  • Digestive system craft 

Middle School

Next, look at these middle school resources for the human body unit study.

  • Human Body Systems by Cindy at Our Journey Westward. Hands- on activities for studying the bones, circulatory system and blood compatibility.
  • Black and white printable life sized CHILD skeleton
  • Anatomy unit study
  • Circulatory System Game by Ticia at Adventures in Mommydom
  • Color printable life sized child skeleton – So cool.
  • Black and white printable life sized ADULT skeleton
Mega List Free Resources for Human Body Homeschool Unit Study. Crafts, Lesson Plans,Teachers Guides for Elementary, Middle and High School @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus


High School

Lastly, I gathered up some high school resources too.

  • Advanced Matching Human Body Organs Worksheet.
  • Human Reproductive System (again be sure to look over before you hand this to your teen).
  • Study of the Skin
  • Atlas of Human Skeletal Anatomy Ebook – 68 page .pdf super helpful
  • Cervical Dilation Illustration. Remember to look over these sites first. This illustration was super helpful in understanding labor and delivery. The illustration starts with a cheerio and goes up to the size of a bagel.
  • The Endocrine System Teacher’s Guide.

Additionally, look at these hands-on activities. After all, this is how learning sticks.

MORE HUMAN BODY HOMESCHOOL UNIT STUDY ACTIVITIES

Hands-On Activities (All Grades)

  • Kids Stethoscope Activity
  • Major Organs of The Human Body Labeled Fun Felt Anatomy Activity
  • 8 Eye Facts & Human Body Activities Middle School & Fun Eye Model
  • Human Anatomy
  • Edible Skin Project 
  • Resources and Books About The Human Body For Preschoolers
  • 12 Human Body Games For Middle School & High School
  • Printable Paper Doll Human Body Together
The Basement Workshop Store
  • Brain Fluid Activity
  • Eye Anatomy
  • Circulatory System with licorice pull and peel
  • Printable Label Human Eye
  • Build a sticks and stones skeleton outside
  • 7 Human Body Facts and Kids Human Body T-Shirt Project
  • Making Blood + What Are the Components of Blood
  • Making a Lung
  • Bend a Bone
  • Drawing Artistic Anatomy the arms, legs and torso
  • Free Human Body Coloring Pages from Dover
  • Build An Edible DNA Model
  • How to Turn a Pizza Into a Fun Edible Human Cell Model
  • 9 Free Major Organs Of The Human Body Printables Dot to Dot



  • Manipulatives showing bacteria and virus. Using pipe cleaners and pom-poms
  • Printable pdf lung
  • Label the Bones of the Arm X-Ray Simple Activity
  • Rigid versus Flexible Bone Activity.
  • DIY Heart Pump
  • Simple and Easy Circulatory System Hands-on Activity for Kids
  • Basic Steps in the Digestive System and a Fun Digestive System Craft
  • Craft a Fun Hand Straw Model to Explore Human Anatomy Muscles & Tendons
  • Spinal Cord with lifesavers
  • Make a heart from recyclable plastic
  • How To Make A Fun Bones Of The Hand Labeled X-Ray Craft
  • How to Make a Human DIY Heart Model Easy Craft for Kids
  • Hands-on Playdough Brain Activity
  • 7 Human Skull Facts and Cool Human Skull Anatomy Activity
  • 8 Facts About the Respiratory System & Fun Lung Craft for Kids

Edible Projects

  • Eyeballs.(Pinterest image)
  • Eye Cake Balls
  • Eatable Skin Mold
  • Eyeballs cream cheese and life savers. Link is not on site, but Pinterest image is great.
  • Fun Edible Spine
Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study. When we started our human body homeschool unit study we were excited to learn about all the free resources. Also, look at these other pages Best Homeschool Unit Studies and Fun Human Body Crafts for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning. Your human body is an amazing and wonderful complex system. Human body lapbook for kids.
  • Candy Spine by Ticia at Adventures in Mommydom
  • Another Edible Skin Layers
  • Components of Blood Experiment
  • Edible Bone Model
  • Edible Skin Layers Cake

Interactive Content, Media, Images Human Body Homeschool Unit Study

Also, your kids will enjoy some of these interactive games and pictures.

Anatomy of the Human Body by Henry Gray The Bartleby.com edition of Gray’s Anatomy of the Human Body features 1,247 vibrant engravings—many in color—from the classic 1918 publication.
Paper Mache Body Images.
Anatomy Arcade – Beats worksheets.

3 D Brain Anatomy A virtual 3-D
You Tube How the Heart Pumps

Journey through the Digestive track infographic
Video about Skin

HUMAN BODY LAPBOOK FOR KIDS

Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study. When we started our human body homeschool unit study we were excited to learn about all the free resources. Also, look at these other pages Best Homeschool Unit Studies and Fun Human Body Crafts for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning. Your human body is an amazing and wonderful complex system. Human body lapbook for kids.

  • Dynamic and Fun Human Body Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic and Fun Human Body Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $5.00
    Add to cart

History

Finally, look at this cool history of medicine.

A Civil War Surgeon’s Diary Transcribed. Great way to tie in history with science. Read a Civil War Surgeons Diary.

What is blood hands on activity and free blood components minibook for a human body homeschool unit study @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Making Blood
Homeschool Unit Study Human Body. Hands-on Activity 5. Edible Skin + Skin and Major Body Systems Minibook @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus Featured
Edible Skin
Mega List Free Resources for Human Body Homeschool Unit Study @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Mega List Free Resources
Body Part Labeling and Human Skeleton Quiz Free Minibooks - Free Human Body Unit Study @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus FEATURED
Body Part Labeling 
Human Body Unit Study. Rigid versus Flexible Bones Hands-on Activity @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Rigid versus Flexible Bone Activity
Human body unit study DIY Heart Pump @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
DIY Heart Pump
20 Human Body Books for Middle and High School Homeschooled Kids @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Human Body Books for Middle and High School
Human body unit study DIY Stethoscope. Hands-on Learning @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Kids Stethoscope Activity
Free Human Body Lapbook and Unit Study @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus featured
Beautiful Human Body Lapbook and Fun Unit Study
Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study

This blog hop is organized by iHomeschool Network, a collaboration of outstanding homeschool bloggers who connect with each other and with family-friendly companies in mutual beneficial projects.

15 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Hands-On Activities, Lapbooks, Middle School Homeschool, Science, Science Based Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, homeschoolscience, human body, lapbook, lapbookresources, life science, science, sciencecurriculum

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

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

January 12, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Making a pyramid diorama for the states of matter is a fresh way for your child to show what they have learned about the topic in a fun 3D presentation. Also, look at my page Trioramas: How To Create Engaging Visual Narratives For Kids for more ideas.

Everything around you, from the chair you’re sitting on right to the air that you breathe is made up of matter.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Matter is anything that takes up space and has mass. Matter exists in different states and can change states.

Let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of solids, liquids, gases, and plasma.

Understanding the states of matter helps us understand the world around us and how materials behave.

From building strong structures with solid materials to using liquids for transportation and gases for energy, the states of matter play an important role in our everyday lives.

BOOKS ABOUT PHYSICAL SCIENCE TOPICS FOR KIDS

Next, I gathered a few books about physical science.

When possible, we prefer to read living books with our unit studies and to read alongside our experiments.

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

Before we move onto the pyramid triorama, look at the different states of matter to get a good understanding of each.

FACTS ABOUT SOLIDS STATES OF MATTER

Solids are all around us, your toys, your books, and even your bones.

They have a definite shape and volume, meaning they don’t change their shape easily and take up a specific amount of space.

Think of a brick; it stays a brick whether you put it in a box or on the ground.

It’s about the tiny particles inside them.

These particles are packed tightly together and can only vibrate in place.

This tight arrangement gives solids their strength and keeps them from flowing like water.

Fun Fact: Some solids, like glass, may seem hard but are very brittle and can shatter easily.

FACTS ABOUT LIQUIDS STATES OF MATTER

They have a definite volume but take the shape of their container.

Think of pouring juice into a glass – the juice takes the shape of the glass but keeps the same amount.

The particles in liquids are close together but not as tightly packed as in solids.

They can move around and slide past each other, allowing liquids to flow and take the shape of their container.

Fun Fact: Water is the most common liquid on Earth and is essential for all life.

FACTS ABOUT GASES: INVISIBLE AIR

Gases are all around us, even though we can’t always see them.

They have no definite shape or volume and expand to fill their container.

Think of blowing up a balloon – the air inside expands to fill the balloon’s shape.

The particles in gases are far apart and move around quickly. They have lots of space to zoom around, which is why gases can be compressed easily and expand to fill any space.

Fun Fact: The air we breathe is a mixture of different gases, mostly nitrogen and oxygen.

PLASMA

Plasma is the fourth state of matter and is not as common as solids, liquids, and gases on Earth.

It’s like a superheated gas where the particles are so energized that they break apart into charged particles.

Plasma is found in stars, lightning, and even some neon signs.

Fun Fact: The Sun is a giant ball of plasma.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

CHANGING STATES

Matter can change from one state to another through processes like melting, freezing, boiling, and condensation.

  • Condensation: When a gas turns into a liquid (like steam condensing into water droplets on a mirror).
  • Melting: When a solid turns into a liquid (like ice melting into water).
  • Freezing: When a liquid turns into a solid (like water freezing into ice).
  • Boiling: When a liquid turns into a gas (like water boiling into steam).

MORE PHYSICAL SCIENCE ACTIVITIES

  • Physical Science For Kindergarten: Free States Of Matter Pages
  • Electricity Hands-On Homeschool Science Activity
  • Electricity STEM: Lighting Up a Shoebox Tiny House
  • 41 Easy Hands-on Faith-Neutral Science Activities for Kids
  • 5 Simple Wind Energy Activities For Kids & Fun DIY Anemometer
  • How to Make a Simple Wind Vane | Fun Wind Activities Middle School
  • Simple and Fun Hands-On Water Cycle Activity For Kids
  • How To Make A Fun Periodic Table Notes Game With Kids
  • How To Make A Newton’s Cradle With Popsicle Sticks | 5 Sir Isaac Newton Facts
  • Then grab some minibooks About Sir Isaac Newton and His Apple on my Apple Unit Study and Lapbook page.
  • Easy Atom Model Project: How To Create A Fun Lego Version
How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Then look at these other themed ideas.

MORE TRIORAMA IDEAS

  • 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 pyramid diorama for states of matter.

HOW TO MAKE A PYRAMID DIORAMA FOR STATES OF MATTER

You will need:

  • 12×12 Cardstock
  • Fine line pens
  • Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

First, choose your states of matter- Liquid, gas, solid, plasma and then choose which substance will represent each.

We are going to go with water, ice, and steam to keep it simple for this triorama but encourage your child to branch out into new states of matter as well.

To create your pyramid we are going to need to fold and cut that square, start by folding it from diagonal corner to corner like this.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Open the fold and do it again in the opposite direction so that you now have two intersecting lines across the paper.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Cut from one corner until you just get to the center point.

Put an X on one of the triangles on one side of the cut or the other to note which piece will be glued and hidden. I like to leave most of our trioramas flat until they are completed because it makes it so much easier to write or draw on a flat surface.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

On another sheet of cardstock your child can draw states of matter in whatever form they have chosen, keeping them small enough to fit on the page with room for information.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Color them in.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Cut around the images.

Trace the image shapes onto your 3 triangles of the folded paper so you can write without worry of covering up the words.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

To make our images literally pop off the page we are going to accordion fold strips of cardstock just a few times and then glue them to the back of the images and set aside.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

On the 3 folded triangles have your child write all about a state of matter on each, leaving the outlined space free.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Attach the pictures by the strips to the designated area on the page.

How to Make A Pyramid Diorama For States Of Matter

Fold the X under the other side and glue securely into place to form your pyramid.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, physical science, science, states of matter, triorama, trioramas

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