Explore different types of rocks for a physical science activity.
Physical science encompasses a variety of subcategories of science. The topics relate to the nonliving aspects of the physical world, unlike biological sciences, which deal with living things. Topics such as magnetism, gravity, physical and chemical changes, rocks, erosion and electricity fit into the physical science category. Hands-on activities help preschoolers learn about physical science.
Rocks
Rock observations let the kids explore a component of the physical earth. Collect a variety of rocks for the observation. Minerals and gemstones also work for the exploration. Smooth river rocks, gravel, geodes, quartz, limestone, jade and agate work well. Let the kids feel the differences in the rocks. Have them look at the rocks to determine how they look similar and different. Magnifying glasses help them see fine details of the rocks and minerals. Have them draw things that they learn in a rock journal. You can also create a rock book template with a page for each different type of rock you explore. Let the kids draw a picture and help them write facts about each type.
Magnets
Magnets offer an entertaining physical science activity for preschool students. There are many ways to use magnets. One option is to use a magnet to find metal. Let the kids walk around with a magnet. They can predict which items will be attracted by the magnet and test their predictions by holding the magnet up to each item. Have the kids keep track of the things that were attracted to the magnet and things that were not attracted. Discuss the different things they found during the activity.
Static Electricity
Static electricity is something that most preschool kids have probably experienced. This physical science activity lets them create static electricity. This activity works best on a day with low humidity. You'll need two balloons and a piece of wool fabric. Hold a balloon against the wall and show the students how it drops to the ground. Rub the wool on the balloon and then place it next to the wall to show how it sticks. Let the kids have a chance to charge the balloons and have them stick to the wall. Try charging a balloon and holding it next to another balloon. Demonstrate charging both balloons and putting them next to one another. When only one balloon is charged the two should stick together. When both are charged they should repel because they both have a negative charge.
Chemical & Physical Changes
Chemical and physical changes are found in many everyday items and work well as a physical science activity for preschoolers. The demonstrations show the kids the difference between the two types of changes. Chemical reactions change the structure of the material and cannot be reversed. Everyday examples include toasting a piece of bread, curdling milk with vinegar or mixing baking soda and vinegar. Physical changes don't change the chemical structure of the item. You still have the same structure of the item although it might be in a different state. Examples that would work for a preschool demonstration include melting an ice cube, dissolving salt in water or tearing a piece of paper.
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