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Test Tube Lab · OSHC · Week 2

Balloon gas trap

Materials checklist

  • Balloons (latex-free)
  • Funnel
  • Bicarb soda
  • Vinegar
  • Test tubes or small bottles
  • Rack
  • Goggles

Step by step

  1. Put on goggles.
  2. Use a funnel to add 2 tsp bicarb into the balloon.
  3. Fill the test tube one-third with vinegar.
  4. Stretch the balloon neck over the tube without tipping.
  5. Lift the balloon so the bicarb falls in.
  6. Watch the balloon inflate and record.

Look for & extend

  • • Notice children testing amounts — extend with a results table.
  • • Extend: measure balloon circumference with string.
Discovery HouseEducator Resources
Test Tube Lab · OSHC · Week 2

Cut out along the dashed lines and laminate.

Balloon gas trap

Where did the gas go?

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Balloon gas trap

Why did the balloon blow up?

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Balloon gas trap

How could we make it bigger?

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Balloon gas trap

Notice children testing amounts — extend with a results table.

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Balloon gas trap

Extend: measure balloon circumference with string.

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Discovery HouseEducator Resources
Test Tube Lab · OSHC · Week 2

Observation record — Balloon gas trap

Child / group:
Date:
Educator:

What I saw and heard (child's voice)

Learning I noticed (outcomes)

Where to next / how I'll extend

Outcomes this week: 4.2 · 4.3 · QA1 · QA2