This fun STEM activity can be created in large batches for classroom settings.
If you want a STEM activity to do in the classroom that appeals to your students, don’t overlook slime. It’s pliable so it can be squished and stretched repeatedly. It can also be made to be magnetic which ties into your science lesson about polarity. This activity is one that can be done relatively inexpensively but it does require advanced preparation so make sure to allow enough time in the school day to prep materials.
Ingredients Needed to Make Slime
The ingredients needed to make slime include liquid starch, Elmer’s Glue, Iron Oxide, a neodymium disc magnet also known as a rare earth magnet, disposable mixing bowls, wooden popsicle sticks for stirring, and a box of plastic gloves to keep children’s hands clean and safe.
To prepare the slime for use, you’ll need to do the following things:
- Take out the bowls and give each student one along with a pair of gloves and a popsicle stick. Pour the liquid starch into a bowl. You’ll want to use ¼ of a cup per student.
- Add the iron powder. Two tablespoons are enough per bowl. Get the kids to put their gloves on so you’ll have less mess to clean. Then, have the children stir it until it is mixed with liquid starch.
- Put the glue in and mix. Students will need ¼ a cup of white glue each. They’ll need to continue stirring it because at first, it won’t look like anything.
- Take the slime out and continue squishing and mixing it. This is where the gloves help most. They’ll keep your students’ hands from being stained by the experiment.
- Pat the slime dry. Then pull out the magnets and start experimenting with the creation.
If you’re concerned about the expense, you could easily have children work in groups to reduce the number of supplies needed for the STEM project.
What Students Learn from Experiments Involving Magnets
Students learn a lot from magnets. By making the slime magnetic, you accomplish two things. You teach children how to create their own science experiments using common household items, and you provide them with memorable lessons that they can share with others.
Slime is wildly popular among elementary-aged students and pre-teens. It’s easy to make and is magnetic when made according to the recipe featured on the Frugal Fun 4 Boys website. Although the recipe is intended to be made in small batches, it can easily be adapted to fit your unique classroom’s needs.
