Rainbow Diffusion | Candy Dissolving Molecular Movement | Bodies Of Water Lab

Explore diffusion and concentration gradients with an engaging rainbow candy lab. This is a wonderful low-cost lab for Saint Patrick's Day. It was developed to be conducted in 30 minutes. The lesson expands to explain the confluence of rivers for an Earth science connection. A teacher guide and student reading passage are included.

Teachers will like the background information and tips for success. The supplies are simple and easy to find. You can modify it to save money. You can find it all at the dollar store. The experiment can also be adjusted for multiple grade levels. Teachers will enjoy the "FUN" of this experiment. Teachers will like that it teaches both chemistry and a little Earth science. We included ideas to expand it into a colorful STEAM activity.

A pre-created template for Easel by TPT is included. Just click "Open in Easel" on the product page. You can modify as needed. Please make sure you still download the PDF to see the complete teacher guide, tips for set-up, and TOU. This will allow you to perform as a demo with virtual students and they complete on their devices. Use caution if students are performing the lab with their device next to the supplies. You may find you prefer to print the papers, but this gives you flexibility.

Students will enjoy observing the candy dissolve. They will test two variables to explore different concentrations. Students will discover that diffusion is faster when the concentration gradient is greater. Students enjoy making the connection between combining rivers and their different colors. The reading passage will help older students learn the vocabulary.

Appropriate for multiple grade levels. How deep you go into the science is up to you. All explanations are provided with vocabulary. For younger grades focus on the concept that molecules spread. They will discover that sugar and food dyes dissolve in water. Older grades can expand into density, diffusion, and concentration gradients. The reading passages are written for the higher grade levels.

Included in the Hands-On Activity

• Background Information, Tips, and Vocabulary
• Hands-on Activity Page: Rainbow Diffusion Lab
• Summary Page/ Reading Passage- The Science of Diffusion
• Earth Science Connection- Confluence of Rivers Worksheet
• Answer Keys

Supplies

Petri Dish or small trays, Skittles or Gobstoppers, Heart Shaped Gobstoppers for Valentine's Day, Water, Measuring Cup, Measuring Spoon, Paper Towels, Sugar

The 30 Minute Lab is part of a series. It evolved from being a science lab teacher. I see K-5 students once a week. I only get about 45 minutes with them. This allows me to introduce a topic in a fun, investigative way. It allows the students to have hands-on experience before the regular teacher teaches the concepts and terms. It also helps give the students an experience with the concept before introducing a STEM challenge on the topic. We always say lab before vocab.

Please follow our store so you can get notified as more are added. A bundle of all the labs is available. There is no extra cost to you as new labs are added to the bundle.

30 Minute Labs: Complete Bundle Pack

You may also like

Valentine Candy Heart Science And STEM | A Density And Buoyancy Lab Grade 4 5

Saint Patrick's Day Science | Rainbow Milk Experiment and STEM for Grade 4 and 5

Valentine Candy Heart Erosion Lab | An Earth Science Experiment

Remember leaving feedback earns you points toward FREE TPT purchases. We love hearing how the investigation went.

Also, follow us and be notified when new explorations are uploaded and deals.

Please contact us with any questions. We are here to help.

Yours in Science,

Kimberly Scott

Inspiring Lifelong Learnings through a Memorable Scientific Experience

All parts are copyrighted. Please see the terms of use in the download. Please use good lab practices. The seller is not responsible for the use or misuse of the activities.