Our Year 5 Scientists have really enjoyed getting hands on in this term's unit: Reversible and Irreversible Changes.
They discussed and tested insoluble solids using filter paper, water and a range of kitchen based solids.
'Ground pepper is an insoluble solid because it does not dissolve in water.' - Nashwan, Larch
We also explored the journey of filtration when used to produce clean water.
The children learned that 80% of the world's population have access to clean water which means that the 20% that do not are exposed to harmful unsafe water that can result in diseases and loss of life.
We looked at how scientists gleaned from nature and noticed that some elements in nature such as sand, gravel, moss and even crushed charcoal can act as a purifier as it prevents larger particles from passing through.
Our year 5's tested this further by making their own filter using a plastic bottle (safely wrapped in masking tape), cotton wool, sand and gravel.
'The water was not as dirty as I thought it would be after going through the gravel and sand. It has a yellowish colour to it though.' - Sultan, Larch
We concluded that this would be one stage of filtering water but further processing would need to take place to make it drinking water.
Our scientist had plenty of fun whilst learning which is always a joy to see!
