STEAM Lesson Plan: Oil and Water Don’t Mix!

Summary

• Objective: Students will explore the science of why oil and water do NOT mix through the creation of a Galaxy Glitter Jar and an artwork that utilizes both oil pastels and watercolor paints.

• Subject(s): Science, Art, Math, Mindfulness

• Grade/Level: 1-5

• Time Allotment: 1 hour

Student Skills and Knowledge

1. Students will discuss and then demonstrate the science of why oil and water do not mix through 2 activities (see objective)

2. Students will utilize math skills through measuring and following a ‘recipe’ to create a Galaxy Glitter Jar

3. Students will practice line and shape skills while creating their name and a design.

4. Students will practice brush skills while using watercolor paints.

5. Students will discuss and then practice mindfulness while using their Galaxy Glitter Jar

Lesson Implementation

1. Students will discuss and then demonstrate the science of why oil and water do not mix through 2 activities (see objective)

2. Students will utilize math skills through measuring and following a ‘recipe’ to create a Galaxy Glitter Jar

3. Students will discuss and then practice mindfulness while using their Galaxy Glitter Jar

4. While observing their glitter jar, students will use masking tape to create a rectangle then write their name inside the box. Students will then create a variety of lines, shapes and colors using oil pastels. Once satisfied with their design, students will use watercolor paints and observe how the water ‘resists’ the oil pastels.

Materials & Resources

1. Resource: YouTube video: Why Don't Oil and Water Mix? | ATK Kids Food Science Explainers watch until (:57) Reason: This short video explains the molecular science of how oil and water do not bond in a kid-friendly way
   

2. Resource: YouTube video: "Just Breathe" by Julie Bayer Salzman & Josh Salzman (Wavecrest Films) watch in entirety Reason: This short video discusses emotions and ways to calm the mind through breathing and watching a glitter jar.