As much as I hate this dry winter air, I’ve got to admit — it’s been pretty awesome for experimenting with static electricity. Last week, we came across a static demonstration I’d never seen before, and my kids went crazy for it! So simple, but it looks like pure magic!
You will need:
- one balloon
- cornstarch
- vegetable oil
- a spoon
- a bowl
Mix about two tablespoons each of cornstarch and vegetable oil to make a thick, viscous liquid. As my mother always says, we’re not making pocket watches, so don’t worry too much about the exact measurements. If you achieve a soupy-like substance, you’re on track.
Locate one child willing to rub a balloon on his or her head. Rub the balloon vigorously to charge it.
Take a spoonful of your cornstarch soup and hold it near the balloon. Watch in awe. Repeat!
As you’ll see, the attraction from the balloon is so strong, it actually makes the cornstarch leap off the spoon!
I can’t tell you how many times I had to clean that balloon off so we could try it again!
While you’re in the mood, check out more fun with static electricity from the always entertaining D’Art of Science:
I’m not much for science in our house lol… history I love doing with the kids, but science I’m reluctant about. This looks easy and fun though, thanks for the lead!
Good! Have you ever considered integrating science into your study of history? The Well-Trained Mind uses that approach, and it might give you a starting point for how to incorporate science so that it doesn’t feel like another extra thing to make time for.
Hey Lindsey! The Well-Trained Mind is actually my reference point for our curriculum right now, but science has been the hardest to stick with consistently for all of us. It’s not so much integrated as it is synergistic, which is fine… I don’t like trying to force integration of subjects. But yeah… it’s a block of time we haven’t gotten in the groove of yet I guess. 🙂