Tonight was the Gombert Elementary School Science Fair.  Zach had been wanting to do the Science Fair for some time now, so we worked with him on a project that he thought was really cool!  The title of his project was “Solid or Liquid?  A Study in Non-Newtonian Suspension.”  Pretty fancy, huh? 🙂  He made Oobleck (like in the Dr. Seuss book) and had a blast!

Here’s the recipe:

  • 1 1/2 C. Corn Starch
  • 1 C. Water
  • Food Color (optional)

Mix the ingredients and play with the mixture. When”pushed” together, the mixture will appear dry and solid; as it is let go, it flows like a smooth liquid.

He had a blast slowly sticking his fingers in it and making it feel liquid, then pounding it with his fist and making it feel solid, etc.

We took a bunch of pictures and then printed them and the titles and text he wanted to print and then he cut everything out and pasted it on his backboard.  He got a lab coat from the costume box and used my safety goggles and he was ready to go!  It was so cute to watch him explain Oobleck and non-newtonian fluids to the judges.  He got pretty messy (and so did anyone that came by) from playing in the oobleck in its “soft” form.  🙂

He had a wonderful time.  He is really into science right now and loves to do experiments.  This was no exception.  He received a ribbon and certificate for his efforts which he was very proud of…

Great job Zach!  Keep up the great work and one day you may become a great scientist!  🙂