Science for Homeschoolers

Science is an important subject for children to learn, and sometimes it can be helpful when they can roll up their sleeves to really experience the subjects that are being taught. Our water testing experiments are a great way to make science fun and easier to understand. These projects not only help to reinforce the topic of scientific method but also why it is so important to take care of the earth’s natural resources.

The best part about these science experiments is that you can do them anytime, and they require very little equipment. All you need is our 4 Pack School & Experiment Kit or the Classroom Kit With TDS Meter and some water samples. You can choose from one of the projects listed here or others on our blog, or let your imagination be your guide and come up with your own hypothesis to test.

Hands-On Science Projects Helps Kids Learn

Not only do kids relate better to hands-on learning, but studies show that it can help stimulate brain growth. This is because when kids are able to put what they learn into practice, they gain a better understanding of the concepts. It also helps them develop their problem-solving skills and improve their critical thinking abilities.

Science is more than just the study of facts. It is also about engaging with the world around us, testing ideas and explanations. Much of the scientific theory that is taught today is based on what was learned from science experiments. Water testing science projects promote scientific thinking and problem-solving. They give children a chance to ask questions, create hypotheses, and test theories to better understand the world around them.

A Science Experiment for Kids: Testing Homemade Water Filters

Imagine if you had a natural disaster that compromised the local water supply. This is a real possibility for many people who live in hurricane and storm-prone areas. In such an emergency, your only source of water may not be safe to drink, forcing you to make a water filter with supplies you have on hand. If you don’t have a supply of clean water, would you be able to improvise and use common household materials to filter water to make it safe to drink? In this experiment, we chose a few homemade water filters that were suggested online to see which one did the best job at filtering dirty water.

For this science project, testing homemade water filters, all you need is a School and Science Fair Test Kit from TestAssured, some dirty water, and a few common household items for filters. We decided to use a paper towel, cotton, and a microfiber cloth as our filters. Click here to see instructions for the full experiment.

Fun Fall Science Project with Leaves

With cooler temperatures and fall on the horizon, this science experiment celebrates fall. As the seasons change, we find ourselves admiring the brightly colored leaves, so we decided to see how different leaves would impact our water samples. Our hypothesis was that different leaves would have different chemical and mineral qualities that would change the composition of the water. While this was true for some of the tests, one test, in particular, had some pretty surprising results.

To prepare for this test, head outside and gather some leaves or even some grass. Two of the leaves we chose were still fresh and green, but we did find a nice, pretty yellow leaf. With the help of the internet, we were able to identify our leaves as Oak, Southern Catalpa, and Magnolia. In addition to your leaves, you will also need a School and Science Fair Test Kit from TestAssured, which has all the tools and equipment that you will need to perform the water tests. More details for our leaf experiment can be found here.

Fishy Water Science Project

I think the part kids enjoy most about this project is getting to pick out which fishy water they’re going to test. We took a trip to our local pet store and asked if we could take a few samples from their fish tanks for an experiment. They were very helpful and explained some of the differences we might find in the water samples. Originally, we had planned to test water from different fish but ended up with samples from a variety of species. Our twelve-year-old picked out samples from Black Mussel Snails, African Dwarf Frogs, and Red Zebra Cichlids. Once you have your water samples, the only other equipment you need is a water testing kit from TestAssured. Then you will have everything you need for an easy science experiment that your kids will enjoy. Click here full the full experiment.

Does Movement in Water Affect Its Composition?

Movement is an essential part of a healthy body of water. In large bodies of water, this is caused by gravity and can be seen as a tide or current. Smaller bodies of water can be moved by the wind or plant and animal life. Even your tap water is moved mechanically from its source to the faucet. If movement is beneficial for water, can additional movement improve your water? We decided to test this theory using our water testing kit.

This science project involves testing tap water samples that have been moved in a blender for different amounts of time. This is an excellent science fair experiment that can be performed at different settings, for different times, to produce a variety of results. You can find all the details to perform this experiment here.

Put Science to the Test

These are just a few examples of educational science projects you can incorporate into your homeschooling plan. Science experiments are a great way to test the skills and knowledge your children are learning. They also give kids an opportunity to exercise their curiosity. Projects like these are a great way for students to apply what they are learning to real-world concerns.

Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable. Testing code for colors. This is an example of white text. While white is nice, it is not readable.

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We decided to test some rainwater samples in this month’s science experiment for kids.  We’ll compare our rainwater samples to regular tap water and filtered tap water to see how they compare.  Before you can perform this experiment, you’ll need to collect some rainwater samples.  We had samples from four different rainfalls for our tests.  You will also need a School and Science Fair Test Kit from TestAssured which has all the tools and equipment that you will need to perform the water tests.

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TDS Meter
• 4 cups
• Rainwater samples
• Drinking water samples for comparison

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to gather your water samples.  We left a clean dry bowl outside each time it rained in the weeks before we performed the test.  It’s springtime in South Carolina, so we didn’t have to wait long to collect our samples.  Each time we had collected some rainwater in our bowl, we poured it into one of the test vials from the School and Science Fair Test Kit.  We labeled the vials with the date and noted anything important in the samples results notebook.  For example, our sample from 2/16/19 had a layer of yellow pollen floating on top, so we made a note of that in case it impacted our tests.  You can also store your water samples in plastic ziplock bags, but don’t forget to label the bags with a permanent marker.

Before you start testing, we recommend that you have some control samples of drinking water that you can use for comparison. We used tap water and filtered water, but bottled water or distilled water would also be great options.

Testing

First, you will start with the test for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  Because the meter will not fit in the test vials, you will need to transfer your samples into larger containers for this part of the experiment.  We found that plastic cups work very well for the TDS testing.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook. Be sure to read the TDS meter carefully.  High readings will be noted with “x10.”  

We weren’t surprised to find that Sample C, the one with the pollen, had a higher TDS reading than our other rainwater samples.  Our control samples had the highest TDS readings.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples back into the vials you labeled.  Do this over a sink and be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.  Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s easiest to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and harness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

There wasn’t much variation among our rainwater samples for this set of tests. The biggest difference was that the pH of rainwater was a little lower than our control samples.

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

For this set of tests, none of our samples contained any iron or nitrites.  Our filtered water actually did not contain any contaminants.  We did see some variation in our samples for nitrates.  We also found that the rainwater samples contained a trace amount of copper that was not found in the control samples.

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

None of our samples contained any iron.

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.  Make sure you wash your hands with soap and water when you are finished.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the tests on your four rainwater samples and your control samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• Did the different rainwater samples vary compared to each other?
• How did the rainwater samples differ from your control samples?
• Do you think that rainwater is safe to drink?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.

If you are doing a science project, be sure to create some graphs and charts to display your results.  You can also use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts as another way to show your results.

The post Can You Drink Rainwater – A Science Experiment for Kids appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TDS Meter
• 4 cups
• Dirty water (we added some dirt from the backyard to regular tap water)
• Assorted items that can be used as filters (paper towels, old rags, washcloths, coffee filters, anything porous that could filter out dirt while allowing the water to seep through)

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need some dirty water.  We scooped up some dirt from the yard and added it to tap water.  Be sure to stir the mixture well.

Next you’ll need to set up your filters to create the different samples you will be testing.  We used a metal strainer and lined it with the different items we were using as filters.

Make sure that you stir the dirty water frequently so the dirt doesn’t settle to the bottom. You want to make sure that each sample is the same before it goes through your filters.  Don’t forget to fill one cup with plain tap water that has not been filtered.  This will be the control that the other samples are measured against.

Now is a good time to label your vials and list your different samples in the results notebook.

Testing

First, you will start with the test for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  Because the meter will not fit in the test vials, it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in the cups.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook. Be sure to read the TDS meter carefully.  High readings will be noted with “x10.”  We were surprised to find that our control sample had a higher TDS reading that some of our filtered samples.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  Do this over a sink and be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. Take notes about how clear or cloudy your samples look.  Are there any visible particles floating in any of the samples?  Write your observations in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.  For our samples, it was very obvious that the paper towel seemed to work the best as that filtered sample was not nearly as brown as the others.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s easiest to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and harness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.  Make sure you wash your hands with soap and water when you are finished.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• How did the control sample differ from your other samples
• Did any of the filters you used work better than others?
• Do you think you could rely on a homemade water filter in an emergency?
• What do you think would happen if you combined all of your filters?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are doing a science project, create a graph to show your results.  You can also use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

The post A Science Experiment for Kids: Testing Homemade Water Filters appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TDS Meter
• 4 cups
• 3 fishy water samples
• 1 control sample
• Paper towels

Preparation

We brought out own plastic bags to the pet store to collect our samples.  They gave us water samples from three different tanks and we also asked for a sample of clean water to use as our control.  Once we got home, we transferred the water into cups.  If you don’t want to put the fishy water in your drinking glasses, you could also just set the baggies inside cups so the samples are easier to work with. Now is a good time to label your vials and list the names of your fishy water samples in the results notebook.

Testing

First, you will start with the test for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  Because the meter will not fit in the test vials, it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in the cups.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook. Be sure to read the TDS meter carefully.  High readings will be noted with “x10.”

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  Do this over a sink and be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. Take notes about how clear or cloudy your samples look.  Are there any visible particles floating in any of the samples?  These observations can be written in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s easiest to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and harness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.  When you are finished don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and water.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• How did the control sample differ from the fishy water samples?
• Did one of the fishy water samples differ more than the rest?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are doing a science project, create a graph to show your results.  You can also use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

The post Fishy Water – A Science Project for Kids appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TDS Meter
• 4 cups
• 3 dirt samples
• Paper towels

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to make your dirty water samples.  Fill the first cup with plain tap water.  This will be the control that the other samples are measured against.  Put one dirt sample in each of the remaining cups.  Fill the cups halfway with tap water.  You need enough water that the dirt can be easily mixed into the water, but avoid filling the cup too much so you don’t splash dirty water everywhere.  Once each cup has been mixed, you’ll want to wait about a half hour for the dirt to settle to the bottom.

Now is a good time to label your vials and list the sources of your dirty water samples in the results notebook.

Testing

First, you will start with the test for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  Because the meter will not fit in the test vials, it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in the cups.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook. Be sure to read the TDS meter carefully.  High readings will be noted with “x10.”

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  Do this over a sink and be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. Take notes about how clear or cloudy your samples look.  Are there any visible particles floating in any of the samples?  These observations can be written in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s easiest to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and harness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.  When you are finished don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and water.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• How did the control sample differ from the dirty water samples?
• Did any of the dirty water samples contain more contamination than the rest?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are doing a science project, create a graph to show your results.  You can also use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

The post Dirty Water – A Fun Science Project for Kids appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TD Meter
• Tap water
• Filtered water
• Bleach
• Blender
• Paper towels

Preparation

Before you start testing, you’ll need to prepare your water samples.  For this experiment, you will create four samples:

1. ½ cup tap water for your control
2. ½ cup tap water with one drop of bleach
3. ½ cup tap water boiled for 1 minute and allowed to cool
4. ½ cup filtered water

Samples should be placed in a mug or glass to start the experiment.  You will be completing the TDS test before pouring samples into the vials.

NOTE: Children should be supervised when using the stove and bleach.

Testing

The first test you want to start with is for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  The meter will not fit in the test vials, so it is easier to complete this part of the experiment before transferring your samples to the vials.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water and pat dry between each test. Record your results in the results notebook.

Read the TDS meter carefully.  When the composition of the water is drastically changed, it is not unusual to get an extremely high TDS reading.  You’ll notice in the picture that when we measured the total dissolved solids in the water with bleach, the reading was “113 x10.” The arrow is pointing to where you will see the “x10” if you have a high reading like ours.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  Fill each vial to within a ¼” of the top.  Be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. If any of the purification methods changed the appearance of a sample, make a note on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and hardness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

 Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

 Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the four tests on your samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• Did any of the purification methods change the appearance of the samples?
• Which method altered the water composition most?
• Based on your results, what do you think is the best way to purify water in an emergency situation?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are using this as a science fair project, you can arrange the test sticks on a page to create a visual comparison of results from the different purification methods.

The post Which Home Water Purification Method Works Best? appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TD Meter
• 4 different water samples
• Measuring cup
• Zipper sandwich bags
• Paper towels

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to gather your water samples.  For this experiment, you need four different water samples.  The first one should be a control sample.  Since the water we drink and give to our dog is filtered, we used filtered water as our control.  If you normally drink tap water and give tap water to your dog, tap water should be your control sample. Our second sample was from our dog’s water bowl.  Our next sample came from a public water fountain.  The final sample needed to more closely mimic the sample from the dog bowl, so we gargled a mouthful of water and collected that for our fourth sample.

 These are the four samples we’ll be testing:

1. Control sample (either tap water or filtered water)
2. Water from a pet dish
3. Water from a public water fountain
4. Gargled water

We found that one of the easiest ways to handle water samples is to use zipper sandwich bags.  You can easily label the bags, and they are large enough to allow for the TDS test.  For more stability (and less chance of spills) you can put the baggies inside mugs or cups.

Now is a good time to label your vials and write your water sources in the results notebook.

Note: We tested water from our dog’s bowl, but this experiment could be done with water from a cat bowl, fish bowl, or hamster bottle.

 Testing

The first test you want to start with is for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  The meter will not fit in the test vials, so it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in larger containers.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  To transfer your samples to the vials, simply snip off a small corner of the baggie to create a spout. Fill each vial to within a ¼” of the top.  Be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. Take notes about how clear or cloudy your samples look.  Some of your samples may be cloudier than the others.  Some of the samples could contain dirt or food particles. These observations can be written in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s best to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and hardness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

 Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the four tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• Which tests showed the most variation across all samples?
• Did any of the test results exceed the EPA recommended levels for drinking water? (These are listed in the Guide & Results Notebook.)
• What results did you find the most surprising?
• Whose mouth do you think is cleaner?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are using this as a science fair project, you can use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

The post Whose Mouth is Cleaner – Yours or a Dog’s? appeared first on .

In this experiment, we will be testing unfiltered water, water purified with an old filter, and water purified with a new filter.  Our results were not what we had expected.  Gather your supplies and let’s see how your water filter is working compared to ours.

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TD Meter
• Tap water
• Water filtration system that is currently in use
• Replacement water filter
• Zipper sandwich bags
• Paper towels

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to gather your water samples.  For this experiment, you need three samples:

1. Tap water for your control
2. Tap water passed through a used filter
3. Tap water passed through a new filter

We found that one of the easiest ways to handle water samples is to use zipper sandwich bags.  You can easily label the bags, and they are large enough to allow for the TDS test.  For more stability (and less chance of spills) you can put the baggies inside mugs or cups.

Now is a good time to label your vials and write your water sources in the results notebook.

Testing

The first test you want to start with is for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  The meter will not fit in the test vials, so it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in the baggies.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  To transfer your samples to the vials, simply snip off a small corner of the baggie to create a spout. Fill each vial to within a ¼” of the top.  Be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. Take notes about how clear or cloudy your samples look.  Are there any visible particles floating in any of the samples?  These observations can be written in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s best to work with one sample at a time.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and hardness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the four tests on your three samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• How does the water filter alter the composition of the tap water?
• What was the difference between the old filter and the new filter?
• Does your tap water meet the EPA recommended levels for drinking water? (These are listed in the Guide & Results Notebook.)
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are using this as a science fair project, you can use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

We were surprised to find that our used water filter performed better than our new water filter.  Some companies recommend that you run a few gallons of water through a new filter before using. The filter we tested did not include that in the instructions, but we’ll be testing the water again to see if that makes a difference.

The post How Well Does Your Water Filter Work? Experiment For Kids At Home. appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TD Meter
• 1 mug of hot water
• 3 empty mugs to prepare samples
• 1 tea bag
• Measuring cup
• Measuring spoon
• Milk
• Sugar
• Paper towels

 Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to start with a 1 cup of hot water. Set aside ¼ cup of hot water for your control sample.  Place a tea bag in a mug with the rest of the water and allow to steep for five minutes. Remove the tea bag and divide the tea into three mugs, each containing ¼ cup of water.  Mix 1 teaspoon of milk into one mug of tea and 1 teaspoon of sugar into another.  You should now have four mugs with samples.

You may want to use tape to attach a label to each mug to identify your samples, so they do not get mixed up.  Don’t forget to label your vials too.

Testing

The first test you want to start with is for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter.  The meter will not fit in the test vials, so it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in the mugs.  To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter with clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook.

Read the TDS meter carefully.  Because we are adding ingredients that change the composition of the tea, it is not unusual to get an extremely high TDS reading.  You’ll notice in the picture that when we measured the total dissolved solids in the tea with milk, the reading was “118 x10.” The arrow is pointing to where you will see the “x10” if you have a high reading like ours.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled.  Fill each vial to within a ¼” of the top.  Be sure to wipe up any spills, so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

You may want to take a moment to write your visual observations in the “Notes” section of the results notebook.  Comments about how clear or cloudy your samples are may be helpful as you are analyzing the results.

Once you have your work area organized, its time to start the tests.  It’s best to work with one sample at a time to avoid contamination.  Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and hardness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the four tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results.  Ask yourself these questions:

• Did adding a tea bag to the water have an impact compared to the control sample of plain water?
• How did adding sugar change the composition of your sample?
• How did adding milk change the composition of your sample?
• Which ingredient, sugar or milk, produced the most changes?
• Which sample contained the most dissolved solids?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page.  If you are using this as a science fair project, you can use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.  You may also want to create a chart or graph of the data you recorded in the results notebook.

The post How Does Adding Milk and Sugar Change a Cup of Tea? appeared first on .

Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies:

• Test Assured 4 Test Kit Set with TD Meter
• 3 different vegetables
• Measuring cup
• Pot
• Paper towels

Preparation

To prepare for the tests, you’ll need to make vegetable water. For this experiment, we used cabbage, an onion, and a beet. We peeled the onion and beet prior to cooking, but an interesting test might be to test water from the same vegetable with the skin and without to see if there is a difference.

NOTE: Although we used beets for this experiment, they are not recommended. The beets stained the water red which made it hard to read the results on the color charts. We suggest using vegetables that will not alter the color of the water.

Once your vegetables are chopped, it’s time to get cooking (children should be supervised when using the stove for this portion of the experiment). To make sure the conditions were the same for each experiment, we used 1 cup of water and ¼ cup of vegetables to make each sample following these instructions:

1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil
2. Carefully add ¼ cup of one of your chopped vegetables
3. Boil on high for 5 minutes
4. Allow sample to cool for 10 minutes
5. Scoop out the vegetables and pour sample into a mug or bowl

Repeat this procedure for all three of the vegetables you will be testing. Be sure to clean and dry the pot in between making your samples to avoid contamination. You may want to use tape to attach a label to each mug or bowl to identify your samples so they do not get mixed up. Don’t forget to label your vials too.

You will also need to prepare a control sample of plain water. To do this, simply follow the same instructions listed above except skip step #2.

Once you are finished, you should have four samples.

Testing

The first test you want to start with is for total dissolved solids, using the TDS meter. The meter will not fit in the test vials, so it is easier to complete this part of the experiment while your samples are still in larger containers. To perform the TDS test, simply turn on the meter and submerge the prongs in the samples. Rinse the meter in clean water between each test. Record your results in the results notebook.

After completing the TDS test, you will need to pour your samples into the vials you labeled. Fill each vial to within a ¼” of the top. Be sure to wipe up any spills so you don’t contaminate the test strips.

Before you get started with the tests, now is a good time to make some visual observations. These can be written in the “Notes” on the last page of the results notebook.

Now you’re ready to get started with the rest of the tests. It’s best to work with one sample at a time. Follow these instructions to complete the remaining tests.

Alkalinity/pH/Hardness Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “ALK/pH/Hard”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample for one second and remove
4. Hold the test strip level and wait 10 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for alkalinity, pH, and hardness
6. Record your results in the results notebook

Total Chlorine/Copper/Nitrate/Nitrite Test

1. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “CL/CO/NA/NI”
2. Pick up the strip on the end with no pads
3. Dip the strip in the sample three times and remove – DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER
4. Hold the test strip level for 2 seconds
5. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for chlorine and copper
6. Wait 45 seconds before reading the results for nitrate and nitrite
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Iron Test (Complete this test last)

1. Remove one iron reagent tablet from the foil packet and place in test vial (the reagent could alter the results of other tests which is why the iron test is completed last)
2. Place the cap on the test vial and shake for approximately one minute, until the tablet is completely dissolved
3. Remove the test strip from the packet labeled, “Iron Test”
4. Dip the strip in the sample for 2 seconds
5. Shake the strip once and wait 60 seconds
6. Place the strip as shown in the picture and compare to the color chart for iron
7. Record your results in the results notebook

Repeat all three tests for each of your samples.

Results

Now that you have completed each of the four tests on your four samples, it’s time to look at your results. Ask yourself these questions:

• Which vegetable had the most changes when compared to the control sample (plain water)?
• Did any of the vegetables have similar results?
• Which vegetable left behind the most dissolved solids?
• What results did you find the most surprising?

Record your answers on the “Notes” page. If you are using this as a science fair project, you can use clear tape to fix the test sticks to the color charts to display your results.

The post What’s in Your Vegetable Water? appeared first on .