Flubber can be a great activity for students to enjoy in science class. Have the students make their own batch of Flubber, and then encourage them to learn as much as they can from the mixture. Powers of observation can be improved through scientific inquiry.
Recipe for Flubber
To make Flubber, you need to have two containers. In the first container, mix together ¾ cup warm water, a cup of white glue, and a couple of drops of food coloring. Have each group of students use a different color of food coloring to add some color to the experiment. In the second container, mix 2/3 cup of warm water, and two teaspoons of Borax. Be sure to follow all safety procedures and do not allow students to ingest the Borax.
Once each container is mixed thoroughly, pour the water and borax mixture into the glue mixture. With a spoon or with your hand, gently mix the Flubber together until all of the water is absorbed. Now have the children begin to keep notes in their scientific journals as they make their observations.
Observations for Flubber Activity
Ask the students to describe how the Flubber feels. They should stick their hands in the mixture and stir and feel it as best as they can and write all of their observations down. Ask students what happens if they try to roll it up in a ball? Does it roll? Does it bounce? How does it act when you do various things to it? Provide each group a selection of objects to test the Flubber with. What happens when you place the Flubber into a cup? What about if you put it over top of a cup?
Encourage students to explore and come up with different ideas to try out. The more creative the students become, the more they will learn about this substance. This is a great way to teach students how to observe and experiment. Have the students write down their predictions before testing various ideas.
Flubber is a fun polymer substance that can teach students a lot about the powers of observation. Use this activity in writing class to teach students how to accurately describe something in writing. Make sure they use descriptive terms that are accurate to what they are seeing and feeling. Have students use each of their senses to experience Flubber. When the students are finished, you can store the Flubber in an air tight container for later use. Make sure students wash their hands as well.
You may be interested in other science experiments to have students complete.
