What’s In Melted Snow?

Supplies

• Snow
• A clear bowl or container
• Optional: white wash cloth, magnifying glass

Instructions

1. Take your child outside and have them fill up a bowl with snow.
2. Bring the bowl inside and let the snow melt.
3. Your child can make predictions about what they think will happen to the snow when it is brought into a warmer temperature.
4. Allow time for your child to notice the debris in the water and discuss the results. Does your child realize that the debris comes from the snow?
5. This is a great activity to do with your child (or class), especially if you have a child who likes to eat snow!

Note: If you are having difficulty seeing the debris, you can pour the water through a white washcloth. It will catch the debris and make it easier to view.

Adaptations/Extension of Play:

• Allow your child to make predictions on what will happen to the snow when it is brought into a warmer temperature.
• Collect snow from different areas outside. Do the results change? Is the debris different?
• You can also take pictures and put them up on the wall for further observation. Or, create a book that looks at the hidden dirt in snow. This allows for further study at home or in class.

Skills

• Science