Teaching about thermal energy

Here's another great kid's activity, that can be modified for younger or older kids.  I used this for my 9th grade Physical Science students when teaching them about thermodynamics.

I found that any lab that involved food was sure to get them excited and motivated to learn!  And this one involves ice cream!



So, we waited for a really warm day, divided into groups (necessary to give freezing hands a break as they pass the bag off), and headed outside to learn about thermal energy and enjoy a cool snack!

Just make sure you have them tell you the principles behind the lab before allowing them to dig in!