A simple experiment that will help fifth-graders understand the ability of water to hold heat. Materials for this experiment include an unwaxed paper cup and some source of flame like a candle, Bunsen burner or barbecue grill. Fill the cup about three-quarters full with water and position it over the source of flame. As the flame burns beneath the water-filled cup, students will observe the cup burns down to the level of the water. The paper cannot burn unless it reaches a temperature of about 233 degrees Celsius. The heat of the flame gets absorbed through the paper into the water, preventing it from burning.
This experiment for fifth-graders gets them accustomed to one of the most common tasks in science -- classifying items or things into specific groups. The only materials needed include a large collection of similar items like a jar of assorted buttons or a bag of peanuts still in the shell. Instruct students to separate and group the items according to a set of characteristics like size, shape, texture, irregularity or color. Have students classify other things like pets, animals in a zoo or types of trees.
This simple experiment teaches students about the power in simple sunlight. Materials needed include two large empty soda bottles, two balloons, black paint and white paint. Paint one bottle black, the other white. Attach a balloon to each of the painted bottles and place them in direct sunlight. As the balloon on the black bottle becomes larger, have students observe and record the reactions occurring within both bottles. Ask students questions about the size of the two balloons, the effects of sunlight on dark- and light-colored items, and possible uses for solar power.
Students will learn about the light-sensitive retina in the human eye and how it perceives and reacts to light. Materials needed include a flashlight, a sheet of white paper and some black electrical tape. Tape the white paper over the flashlight lens. Using the electrical tape, cover the white paper where the light will shine through leaving a small square for light to pass through. Darken the room, hold the flashlight about two feet away and stare directly at the lighted square for 30 seconds. Then, look away at a light-colored wall and observe the afterimage.