Saturday Science: Learning, Melting, and Balloon Mishaps
4/20/25
Maddison and I with our beautiful hot air balloon
This past spring, I had the joy of co-leading a four-week Saturday science series for kindergarten and first-grade students called Science Quest: Let’s Heat Things Up! Alongside an undergraduate preservice teacher, Maddison, we welcomed about 10 young scientists each Saturday for hands-on heat-themed experiments. Our goals were twofold: give the preservice teacher a chance to teach and get paid in a fun, low-pressure environment, and offer children an engaging, curiosity-fueled experience outside the typical school day. I’d say both goals were met—with some melted chocolate and crayons, flying balloons, and valuable lessons along the way.
One of our highlights (and misadventures) came during our hot air balloon day. The kids successfully built mini tissue paper balloons that floated using hair dryers, but our grand finale didn’t go quite as planned. A gust of wind caught our large demo balloon mid-launch... and it ignited. Lesson learned! We’ll be rethinking that part of the experience for future safety and success.
Despite the fireball, the series was a hit. Here’s a quick outline of our weekly themes and standout activities:
🔥 Science Quest: Let’s Heat Things Up! – Weekly Highlights:
Week 1: How Do Animals Stay Warm?
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Melted ice cube races using body heat
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Built thermometers and igloos
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Learned how reptiles and mammals regulate body temperature
Week 2: What Is a Greenhouse?
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Tested insulating materials using warm water and thermometers
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Built a large collaborative greenhouse with PVC pipes, tarps, and color-tinted windows
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Planted seeds in mini greenhouses to take home
Week 3: Can Heat Make Things Move?
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Water density experiment: hot vs. cold water
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Created and launched mini hot air balloons
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(Attempted) big balloon launch—note: wind + fire = no thanks
Week 4: Can We Build an Oven?
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Designed solar ovens from cardboard boxes
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Tested them under heat lamps with crayons and chocolate
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Open-ended maker time for creative builds
Each week reinforced the idea that science isn’t just about right answers—it’s about wondering, testing, revising, and sharing the journey with others. The preservice teacher gained confidence in leading playful, inquiry-based learning. And the kids? They reminded us that discovery is at its best when it’s hands-on and a little unpredictable.
making an “insulated cup” to see if we could keep the heat in