Earth Hour - Melting Ice Experiment

Australian Curriculum content descriptions:

Year 5 Science:

• Solids, liquids and gases have different observable properties and behave in different ways(ACSSU077)
• With guidance, pose questions to clarify practical problems or inform a scientific investigation, and predict what the findings of an investigation might be (ACSIS231)
• With guidance, plan appropriate investigation methods to answer questions or solve problems (ACSIS086)
• Compare data with predictions and use as evidence in developing explanations (ACSIS218)
• Communicate ideas, explanations and processes in a variety of ways, including multi-modal texts(ACSIS093)

Year 6 Science:

• Changes to materials can be reversible, such as melting, freezing, evaporating; or irreversible, such as burning and rusting (ACSSU095)
• With guidance, pose questions to clarify practical problems or inform a scientific investigation, and predict what the findings of an investigation might be (ACSIS232)
• Use equipment and materials safely, identifying potential risks (ACSIS105)
• Compare data with predictions and use as evidence in developing explanations (ACSIS221)
• Communicate ideas, explanations and processes in a variety of ways, including multi-modal texts (ACSIS110)

Syllabus Outcomes: SC4-15LW, SC4-12ES, SC4-10PW. 

Time required: 60 mins

Level of teacher scaffolding: High – conduct experiment, facilitate discussion and oversee activity

General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking

• Ice cubes
• Waterproof tray
• Plastic sheet
• Sticky tape
• Scissors
• Water
• Black marker
• Ruler long enough to fit most of the width of the tray,
• Gravel (optional)
• Internet access
• Student worksheet

This lesson has been created in partnership with WWF-Australia. Earth Hour is the world’s largest community-driven climate change campaign. At the centre of Earth Hour is switching off lights to show a commitment to taking action.

Thousands of teachers use Earth Hour’s education program to enrich their curriculum and provide pathways for young people to create change in their world.

For the most up to date Earth Hour dates, times, and events, check here.