Time to investigate

Put on those science hats because today you are going to be getting hands on with a science investigation.

Last week we looked at Charles Macintosh and how he discovered waterproof material.

I have a bit of a problem that I need some help with. The local fire station have run out of uniform. They have to make sure that the uniform they wear is waterproof as they are always using water to put out fires. Unfortunately, they do not know which materials are waterproof and which are not. Could you help them find out?

First, see if you can find any of the following things around your house:

• A sock
• Cotton wool
• Flannel or a towel
• Tissue
• A plastic bag
• A piece of paper
• A teaspoon

Check with a grown up that they don't mind these items getting a little wet!

Before you start your investigation, you will need to make a prediction: Which materials do you predict will be waterproof and why? Write this down. I predict that...will be waterproof because...

Now let's investigate! Pour a teaspoon of water over each material. Think about how you will know whether that matieral is waterproof or not. If the water drips through then would it be waterproof?

You may like to take some pictures of your investigation, but we would also like you to write up your results in a letter to the fire station e.g.

Dear Prestwood Fire Station

I found out that... is waterproof because when I put water on it...(you may like to use the word absorb here!)

I found out that... is not waterproof because when I put water on it...

Yours Sincerely

(Your Name)

We cannot wait to se you pictures and/or letters! Enjoy and don't get too wet! :)