Room 13 knew that a bubble is made up of water, soap and air. Students found out that water molecules stick to each other really tightly and this is called surface tension. Water can barely stretch because it sticks to itself so well. Blowing bubbles in plain water doesn’t work because the water tries to hold itself together. When the water can't stretch any more, the bubble breaks. Adding soap to the water stops the water molecules from sticking together so tightly and allows the solution to stretch. The outside of a bubble is called the skin and is made up of three layers. This is two layers of soap and one layer of water. The water is sandwiched in between the soap layers.
Room 13 tested several detergents to find out which one made the best bubbles. Similarly, the ratio of water to detergent was tested. Students discovered that they needed to add more detergent to our solution. Then other special ingredients, including sugar, glycerin and corn syrup were added to the soap solution. These ingredients were used to make the soap layer thicker so the bubbles were stronger and lasted longer. The bubbles did not pop when they landed on the grass or were caught in the hand. Leaving the solution to sit overnight and for a week also made better bubbles.
After each bubble blowing session successes and failures were discussed enthusiastically. Who knew that chemistry could be so frustrating, disappointing and exciting? The scientific method of observation, question, hypotheses, test, and conclusion was used to determine the next steps.
Shared tips
During the investigation, Room 13 students discovered other things impacted on the success rate. Very windy and sunny days were problematic as the water layer evaporated very quickly and the bubbles popped before they were formed. Bubble wands made with wire were not as successful as those we made with plastic cable ties or pipe cleaners. Technique was crucial in blowing bigger bubbles including position, speed and timing. Big bubble wands were made with lengths of bamboo. Cotton tape was threaded through eyelets at the end of the poles and tied. Having the knots hanging at the bottom added weight so it was easier to open the wand out once it had been dipped in the solution.
The green dishwashing liquid is the best for blowing bubbles.
You dip the wand in the mixture until it is covered and then you blow gently.
If you can see a black band at the top of the bubble it means it’s about to pop!
If you blow a bubble on a hot day it will pop quickly because the water in the bubble will evaporate.
Don’t hold the bubble wand too close to your mouth.
If you want to blow a bubble you need to blow gently.
A cloudy day is the best day for blowing bubbles.
If you go out on a windy day your bubble will pop.
You don’t need to blow bubbles because you can wave the wand in the air.
If you put the bubble wand up high and then go half speed backwards a big bubble will come out.
Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.
– Anthony J. D'Angelo
My goal is to provide learning opportunities that inspire students to be curious and creative. In a supportive environment students will explore, question and discover elements of the world around them.
Specialising in literacy education has meant I can support students to develop their reading skills. Sharing engaging stories with vibrant illustrations are a stepping stone to creating a range of unique artworks that are displayed with pride.
This hands-on approach is an important part of learning in my classroom. Students discover how words and numbers work using materials. They participate in science experiments, physical activities and creative pursuits. By accepting challenges, taking risks, making mistakes and problem solving students develop an understanding of their capabilities and develop resilience.
When I am not in the classroom I can be found in the garden. It is my connection to the natural world. The time taken to nurture and care for plants is rewarded by experiencing the beauty of flowers blooming and the taste of fresh fruit and vegetables. The sensory connection I have when gardening inspires many art projects in my class. It is important that students believe their ideas and opinions are valued and they have the opportunity to share their personal experiences. I believe that classrooms are successful when a collaborative learning environment is created by students, teachers, whānau and the school community working and celebrating progress together.
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