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3 easy science experiments you can do at home
Veda Dante, July
2017
Since opening in September 1988, Canberra's National Science and Technology Centre, also known as Questacon, has been enthralling school kids with its interactive exhibits and programs. Developed by former Australian National University physics lecturer, Professor Mike Gore, Questacon's goal is to inspire Aussie children to experiment with science.
If you're running out of ways to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays, or would like to do something fun together, then try these simple science experiments at home.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uimKBp_iqvQ[/embed]
Create your own non-toxic slime
Let's face it, kids love this gooey substance, and have done for decades. It's amazing just how many hours of enjoyment they get from squishing it between their fingers and making simple shapes out of it. For this experiment, you will need:- Cornflour
- Water
- Food colouring
- A bowl
- A spoon
Teach the kids morse code
Before telephones, the internet and electronic school white boards, the kids will be surprised to learn that people communicated with each other using simple dots and dashes. Once you have made this electronic circuit, challenge the kids to communicate a message only by using Morse Code. For this experiment, you will need:- 9 Volt battery
- 9 Volt battery holder
- Small buzzer (available at most electronic stores)
- Wooden peg
- 2 pieces of aluminium foil
Make a model rocket
Becoming an astronaut is one of those aspirational careers many school kids dream about, so why not give them a taste of what it's like to fly into space with this model rocket? For this experiment, you will need:- Water
- White vinegar
- Plastic cups
- Bicarbonate soda
- Teaspoon
- Safety goggles
- Film canister with a tight fitting lid
