Sink and Float Worksheet Printables

Whether you’re a teacher looking to spice up your lesson plans or a parent seeking engaging activities at home, our Sink and Float Worksheets offer endless opportunities for discovery and learning.

Sink and Float is one of our favorite science experiments to do at home. It is so easy to set up, requires just basic activities from around the house, and has very little mess. During the summer, setting up sink and float outside is a great way to add something new and exciting to your summer water play.

Today we have a set of free printable sink or float worksheets to make this fun science experiment even more meaningful and enriching.

Sink and Float Activity Worksheets

The Sink and Float activity is designed for children in 1st to 3rd grade, though it can be adapted for younger or older students as well. It’s a hands-on science experiment where children predict whether various objects will sink or float when placed in water, and use these worksheets to record their predictions, observations and findings. 

This activity not only teaches basic scientific principles but also encourages the use of the scientific method. By making predictions, conducting experiments, and recording observations, children learn to think like little scientists.

The pages have lists of suggested items included, so before you begin the sink and float experiment, go on a scavenger hunt around the house to gather all of these items. 

So, wondering how to use the worksheets? Our worksheets are designed to guide children through the entire process. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Prediction Sheet: Children write down their predictions about whether an item will sink or float.
2. Observation Sheet: After testing, they record what actually happened.
3. Results Table: A chart to organize predictions and actual results, making it easy to see patterns.
4. Reflection Sheet: Encourages kids to think about their findings and what surprised them the most.

Page 1: Prediction and Observation

This page is all about getting those little brains buzzing with curiosity and anticipation. Kids start by choosing an item and making a prediction: will it sink or will it float? They jot down their thoughts, which encourages them to think critically and engage with the scientific process. 

Next, they will conduct the experiment, observe what happens, and then record their observations. The cute little jars on the page are perfect for drawing pictures or noting their findings. It’s a great way to practice the scientific method in a fun, hands-on way!

Suggested Items to test:

• Apple
• Coin
• Sponge 
• Paper Clip
• LEGO brick
• Rock
• Leaf 
• Rubber Duck 

Page 2: Hands-On Experiment with Cut-Outs

Now it’s time for some more hands-on action! This page features a big fishbowl and a set of adorable pictures that kids can cut out. They’ll carefully cut along the dotted lines, then paste the images into the fishbowl—top section for floaters, bottom section for sinkers. This visual and tactile activity helps reinforce the concepts of density and buoyancy, making it easier for kids to grasp these basic principles of physical science, and develop understanding of why an object floats or sinks. 

Cut-out items:

• Piece of paper
• Marker
• Pencil
• Feather
• Straw
• Ping pong ball
• Bottle cap
• Shell
• Orange
• Egg

Page 3: Sink or Float Prediction Table

This page features a table for kids to record their predictions and the actual results of their experiments. It’s an organized way to see which items floated and which ones sank. By comparing their predictions to the outcomes, kids can start to see patterns and develop a deeper understanding of why certain objects behave the way they do in water. It’s a perfect blend of hypothesis testing and data recording—skills that are foundational to scientific inquiry.

Items listed:

• Cork
• Grapes
• Eraser
• Candle
• Pebble
• Seed Pod
• Pinecone
• Styrofoam
• Rubber ball
• Marshmallows
• Cotton balls
• Wooden stick
• Rubber band
• Key
• Twig

Page 4: Reflective Learning

This page is all about reflection and deep thinking. After conducting their experiments, kids get a chance to write down what surprised them the most, what they learned about sinking and floating, and if any items behaved differently than expected. This reflective practice helps consolidate their learning and encourages them to think critically about the principles of buoyancy and density. It’s also a great opportunity for kids to practice their writing and expression skills.

Page 5: I Think the Item Will…

On this page, kids find a simple yet engaging table where they can predict whether each item will sink or float. This blank page can be used for any item, including your own items which aren’t listed on the previous pages. 

This science activity page sets the stage for kids to use their prior knowledge and reasoning skills to make educated guesses. It’s a fun way to get them excited about the experiment while practicing making predictions and hypotheses.

This page also helps build the habit of predicting, observing, recording results, and coming to scientific conclusions, which is an important skill to build in the science subject areas. 

Each page of the Sink and Float Worksheets offers a unique way to explore the wonders of buoyancy and density. These activities are not just about learning science; they’re about fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for discovery.

Perfect for both home and school use, these worksheets provide a comprehensive and engaging approach to early science education. Dive in and watch your little scientists flourish!

You can also mix it up by playing the surprise egg sink and float game.

Why is it Great for Little Learners?

This sink or float science activity is more than just fun; it’s educational. Here’s what kids learn:

• Concept of Buoyancy: Understanding why objects float or sink based on their density compared to water.
• Scientific Method: Making predictions, observing outcomes, and drawing conclusions.
• Physical Science Principles: Learning about different densities and the upward force exerted by water.
• Critical Thinking: Encouraging independent work and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-On Learning: Engaging little learners with tangible experiences.

The Sink and Float activity can be easily integrated into classroom settings or used at home. Here are a few ideas:

• Classroom Use: Ideal for small groups, independent work, or as part of a general science curriculum.
• Home Use: A great way for parents to engage with their children in a fun, educational activity.
• Science Fairs: An excellent project that showcases understanding of basic physical science concepts.

Download the Sink and Float Worksheet Pack PDF

Ready to get started? Download our comprehensive Sink and Float Worksheets PDF and start your scientific exploration today! 

These worksheets are designed to be easily printed and used in any setting, providing all the tools needed for a successful and engaging science experiment.

Terms of use: These sink and float worksheets are free for personal use and classroom use. 

Engage your little scientists with one of the best early science activities that combine fun with learning.

Our Sink and Float Worksheets are a great way to explore the fascinating world of buoyancy and density, making science both accessible and enjoyable for young learners. Happy experimenting!

More Science Activities for Kids

If your little scientists loved the Sink and Float Worksheets, they’re sure to enjoy these additional hands-on science activities! From exploring the wonders of magnets to creating simple circuits, these great activities are designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning in young minds. Each experiment is easy to set up and packed with fun, making science both accessible and exciting for kids.

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Loved this hands-on activity for your little scientist? Don’t forget to share it on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter! Help spread the joy of learning and inspire more kids to dive into the fascinating world of science.