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    Home » Science Experiments for Kids » Protect the pirate coins – waterproofing activity

    Protect the pirate coins – waterproofing activity

    April 8, 2015 By Emma Vanstone Leave a Comment

    This is an easy waterproofing activity with a pirate theme.

    We painted one side of the coin so we could easily see if the coin was wet and placed 5 coins in each bag ( paper, cloth, plastic ) before spraying with water and then examining the coins.

    Don’t forget I’ve got lots more early years themed science ideas you might like, including nursery rhymes, fairy tales and under the sea.

    pirate experiment

    You’ll need:

    Coins

    Washable Paint – optional, but helps the children to see if the coins are wet

    Plastic bags

    Cloth bags

    Paper bags

    Water

    Spray bottles

    Instructions

    Ask the children to feel the bags and see if they know what material each is made from, before asking them to predict which will keep the coins driest.

    Spray the bags one at a time with water. We checked the bags after 5 sprays and 10 sprays.

    What do you notice? What happens if you shake the bag?

    Results

    Our paper bag split after shaking and the damp coins fell out after just 5 sprays of water.

    pirate waterproofing experiment

    After 10 sprays to the cloth bag we could see paint starting to seep into the outside of the bag, indicating that the coins were wet.

    waterproofing exepriment

    The coins in the plastic bag remained dry. We gave the plastic bag some extra sprays and observed that the water beaded on the bag and then rolled off.

    Waterproofing experiment pirate themed

    Extension tasks

    Fill up the plastic bag with water? What happens? Can you think of an instance where this is useful?

    Can you try other materials?

    Can you think of any materials that might be waterproof?

    Suitable for Key Stage 1

    Everyday Materials

    Describe the simple physical properties of a variety of everyday materials

    Working Scientifically

    Observing closely, using simple equipment

    Performing simple tests

    Using their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions

    EYFS – Early Learning Goal

    The child knows about similarities and differences in relation to places, objects, materials and living things. 

    More Waterproof Science Experiments for Kids

    Waterproof a pirate ship by covering a paper ship with different materials and spraying them with water.

    Make an umbrella for Incy Wincy Spider.

    Waterproof a dinosaur!

    Last Updated on February 20, 2021 by Emma Vanstone

    « Learning fun at the Science Museum
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    Safety Notice

    Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

    These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

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