Get kids excited about science with four candy labs using Skittles, gummy bears, Pop Rocks, and sour candy. Your class will love the sweet science, and YOU can rest easy knowing your students are doing some serious science, not just saying "wow, cool."
Study physical science concepts while focusing on identifying variables, measurement, collecting and recording data, and drawing conclusions. Most students need a lot of practice with scientific practices, and this is such a fun way to hone those skills.
→ Ideal for 3rd grade, 4th grade, and 5th grade
4 Investigations
1. Rainbow Candy: Mixtures and Solutions
How does water temperature affect how candy dissolves in a bowl of water?
2. Gummy Bear Lab: Properties of Matter
How do water and saltwater affect gummy bears' size?
3. Pop Science: Physical Changes
How does the amount of Pop Rocks candy mixed into soda affect the amount of gas released?
4. Sour Power: Chemical Reactions
Which candy is the fizziest when mixed with a baking soda and water solution?
Each Investigation Includes
→ Set-up Info
→ Investigation Photos
→ Teacher Directions
→ Student Sheet Sample Photo
→ Discussion Questions and Answers
→ Student Directions Page
→ Student Sheet Options
Time
I would plan for five full class periods to complete all of the labs.
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Kim W.
"All materials available at the dollar store, so one quick stop and we were prepared. Minimal prep. Thoroughly engaging."
DeAnna B.
"This was a fun way to introduce the scientific method. My students were so engaged; I'm sure it was the candy. :)"
Lisa D.
"My students love these engaging lab activities to practice scientific method and lab safety rules."
Morgan B.
"My students loved this lab and it identifies the areas of the Scientific method well! It comes with two versions for it is differentiated! I loved all the choices and how they hit different parts of the curriculum. All materials were affordable to purchase in store as well."
Toni R.
"My students really enjoyed jumping back into school with these activities!"
Amber S.
"This resource was so easy to use, my students really enjoyed it!"
Materials
The materials needed are affordable and easy to find.
Be aware of any student allergies.
Rainbow Candy
◻ Trays
◻ Small paper bowls
◻ Skittles or jellybeans
◻ Graduated cylinders
◻ Hot and cold water
◻ Timing device
◻ Colored pencils
◻ Safety goggles
Gummy Bear Lab
◻ Trays
◻ Gummy bears (not vegan)
◻ Clear cups
◻ Salt
◻ Spoons
◻ Food scales or balances
◻ Rulers
◻ Paper towels
◻ Safety goggles
Pop Science
◻ Trays
◻ 12-oz bottles of soda
◻ Balloons
◻ Pop Rocks candy
◻ Funnels
◻ Measuring tapes
◻ Safety goggles
Sour Power
◻ Trays
◻ Clear cups
◻ Baking soda
◻ Sour and non-sour candies
◻ Gloves
◻ Safety goggles
This resource is part of the Holiday Science Bundle.
This special holiday science bundle includes over 20 fun activities for fall, Halloween, winter, Christmas, Earth Day, and Valentine's Day!