This is a very interesting science and math experiment for early childhood students. The students can work on estimating skills and counting skills. They can even work to control their hands and arms since they have to be careful to not bump the table and mess up the experiment.
Place one penny on a papertowel. Use a dropper to drop one drop of water at a time on the penny. We were surprised at how many drops went on the penny before the water spilled over the edge. Amazing results!
Notice how the water forms a dome-like shape on the penny, like a bubble or the meniscus level at the top of a cup filled all the way to the top.
The first time we did the experiment we were able to get 19 drops of water on the penny. The second time we were able to get 30 drops before the water spilled over. Wow!
How interesting! I love the science and math in your activity. Thanks for sharing and linking up to the 2011 Best Ideas for Kids blog hop!
Kristi
Thanks for the comment. I do try to include a lot of science and math experiments and activities in my lessons. The students loved counting how many drops of water fit on the penny.
Very great for fine motor skills!
Thanks. I saw your post about the pennies in the salt container for fine motor skills. Good idea.
Going to be trying this! Thanks for sharing
It is a fun experiment and great for making estimates. I’m going to do it again during President’s Day week as we learn about Abraham Lincoln on the penny.