This lab will tap the natural curiosity of children when unexpected outcomes occur when chemicals are mixed together. Students and teachers alike are amazed at the raw plant materials many of our household items are produced from. Native American plant dyes are explained through chemistry. Children marvel at the interaction of various mineral-containing rocks and boiled vegetables as they produce dyed yarns. The interrelatedness of living organisms is realized through the link to all living things - water.
Students do several chemical tests to determine the health of various water samples.
Students also cast a triceratops horn, discover deposition and erosion and participate in a mini-dinosaur dig. The science educator presents senses as the doorway to the world. The incredible seed is examined and chemical tests are done to determine the food content of the seed during different stages for the new plant. Through basic tests, students solve the riddle of mystery rocks. The role of rocks, minerals, and fossils in our present day lives is brought into focus.