Glenwood Landing Students Study States of Matter

Glenwood Landing’s School-Wide Enrichment Services under the direction of Audra Marcantonio conducted an exciting science program for all second graders involving Slime hosted by the Long Island Science Museum.

Ms. Marcantonio said, “Students participated in a series of hands-on science investigations designed to deepen and extend the second-grade science unit involving “States of Matter”  - including solids, liquids, and gas.” She added, “We were fortunate to have a representative from the Long Island Science Museum, lead our students in various investigations with plastic that utilized their senses, were fun and interactive, and explored properties of matter.”

In one investigation, students made “Gak” by mixing a liquid plastic (glue) with water and green food coloring. They watched it turn from a liquid to a solid when they added a powder (Borax) and stirred with a stick. Different observations made by the students included: it was wet, cold, sticky, green, and moved slowly. Students got to roll the “Gak” and even bounce it on the floor!

In another investigation, the second graders made “Flubber” by mixing a liquid plastic with melted plastic then adding a powder (Borax) and mixing with a stick. Students drew conclusions including it had a bad odor, moved quickly, was cold, and very slippery. Students were able to totally stretch the “Flubber” with their hands or sticks!

It was clear by the excitement in the room that the students thoroughly enjoyed the various science investigations. Many thanks to Audra Marcantonio, the GWL SCA, and the LI Science Museum for bringing this fun and educational learning experience to the students of Glenwood Landing. Remember students, don’t play with these on the carpet!  

Article and photos by Shelly Newman