Third graders use gummy bears to explore the scientific method

Students asked questions, hypothesized, experimented, and drew conclusions about what would happen if gummy bears were left in baking soda, salt, vinegar, and water for two days during a fun project.
By Ian Dinkins, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications

Lower School science classes got a little sweeter recently as students used a tasty treat to bring the scientific method to life.

“They were so excited and loved the idea of a hands-on activity, especially one that involved gummy bears,” said Third Grade Teacher Barbara Voehler. "It was an instant hit.”

The experiment asked students to observe what happens to gummy bears when soaked in different substances over time. After eating just a few gummy bears before the experiment started, students were able to ask questions and start working on their hypotheses. Water, vinegar, saltwater, and baking soda solutions were all tested, with students carefully tracking changes in size, texture, and even smell over several days.

“They used and recorded the scientific method step-by-step as we went through the project,” Voehler explained. 

Students worked in groups, recorded their observations, and learned to stay precise because, as they quickly discovered, changing just one variable could completely alter the results.

For Ever Heard ’35, the highlight was watching the changes unfold over the course of the week.
“I learned if you put the gummy bear in water, it will get huge,” she exclaimed.

Luke Dixon ’35 took a slightly more acidic route. 

“I learned when you put a gummy bear in vinegar for two days, it begins to disintegrate,” he said, with a mixture of awe and enthusiasm.

Completing the scientific method, students had to present their findings to the class and report on what they may have gotten right or wrong over the course of the lesson.

“They realized that this is how scientists work,” said Voehler. “With precision, care, and curiosity. They learned how to collaborate, ask questions, and test their ideas. It moved the scientific method from theory to real-world practice.”

As students continue to grow and experiment in science classes, the lessons they apply here will serve as a foundation for future projects.

“What I took away from this is that students learn best when they can touch and manipulate, smell and observe, work and think in a group,” said Voehler.

As Ever summed it up: “It was fun watching them and seeing what happened after a couple of days and how some of the gummy bears transformed over time.” 

Next up for these budding scientists is a series of hands-on experiments exploring forces and motion. While that lesson may not be as tasty, it’s sure to help students build on the scientific method as they continue to expand their scientific knowledge.
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