Teach lesson
Will it float?
Primary students predict, test, and explain whether real objects float or sink in the Buoyancy remote lab.
Learning Outcomes
Predict whether selected objects will float or sink.
Use the remote lab to test predictions by moving each object down into water.
Compare prediction and observation without treating a wrong prediction as a failure.
Explain a simple pattern using object properties such as material, heaviness, and size.
Student activity preview
Activity Content
Preview only. In a class session, students can fill in responses and submit their work to the teacher.
Predict first
10 min
In this activity, you will test real objects in water. First, make a prediction. Then use the lab to check what actually happens.
Objects for this activity
Use these six objects. Some should float clearly. Some should sink clearly.
Choose two objects from the picture. For each one, write whether you think it will float or sink, and give one reason.
Test in the lab
20 min
Use one row for each object you test. Fill in the prediction before pressing the down arrow, then fill in the observation and best clue after you watch the video.
Prediction-observation route
Keep the same object for the whole row.
Open the Buoyancy lab
Open the Buoyancy lab from this activity.
Choose one object from this activity. If the lab shows extra object cards, ignore them unless your teacher asks for an extension.
In the table, write your prediction in My prediction before moving it.
Press the down-arrow button and watch what happens.
In the table, record whether it floated or sank in What happened.
Repeat with at least four objects. Choose objects that are different from each other, such as different materials, sizes, or fillings.
Prediction and observation table
Complete four rows, not all six objects. For each chosen object, write the object number/name, your prediction, what happened, and one best clue. Best clue means the main reason for your prediction or explanation, such as "made of cork", "very big for its mass", "filled with marbles", or "looked heavy for its size".
| Object number | Object name | My prediction | What happened | Best clue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Which object was most interesting or most different from your prediction? If none surprised you, choose one clear result. Explain what you predicted and what the lab showed.
Explain the pattern
10 min
Scientists update their ideas when observations do not match their prediction. A wrong prediction can still be useful if it helps you notice a pattern.
Look at your table. What pattern do you notice about the objects that floated and the objects that sank? Use at least two object names in your answer.
What is the best science habit in this activity?