Demonstration with Prediction

Classroom walkthrough

See it in practice

One concrete example you can borrow, adapt, or teach as written.

Example lesson context

Sink or Float Investigation (Science - 1st Grade)

Materials

Gather these before class.

Clear container filled with water
Collection of everyday objects (cork, marble, pencil, paper clip, plastic toy, etc.)
Prediction recording sheets with picture supports
Object sorting cards (sink/float categories)
Observation magnifying glasses
Properties vocabulary cards
Results recording chart
Small whiteboards for student predictions

Preparation

What to have ready before students begin.

Fill a clear container with water and place it where all students can see. Gather a collection of 8-10 everyday objects with different properties, some that will sink and some that will float. Create prediction sheets with pictures of each object and sink/float columns. Prepare a class results chart for recording observations.

Run the activity

A classroom-ready sequence from launch to follow-up.

Introduction to sink and float (5-7 minutes):

Activate prior knowledge with questions about water experiences

Introduce the terms 'sink' and 'float' with simple definitions and gestures

Demonstrate with one obvious example of each (rock sinking, cork floating)

Discuss what 'prediction' means - our best guess based on what we know

Exploration of test objects (5 minutes):

Show students each test object one at a time

Allow students to examine properties like weight, material, size

Introduce vocabulary: heavy/light, large/small, solid/hollow

Place objects in a central location for reference

Making predictions (8-10 minutes):

Distribute prediction recording sheets

For each object, students predict whether it will sink or float by circling or coloring the appropriate column

Students whisper their prediction to a partner

For class engagement, students can hold up whiteboards with 'S' or 'F' predictions when prompted

Demonstration and observation (15 minutes):

One by one, test each object in the water container

Before testing, take a quick class poll of predictions

Place object gently in water and allow time for observation

Students record actual results on their sheets

Discuss: 'What happened? Did it match your prediction?'

For added engagement, select student helpers to test objects

Pattern identification (5-7 minutes):

After testing all objects, sort them into sink and float groups

Guide students to notice patterns: 'What do you notice about the objects that floated?'

Create a simple properties chart comparing the two groups

Introduce the concept that material and shape affect floating

Prediction confirmation (5 minutes):

Students count how many predictions were correct

Discuss: 'Were you surprised by any results? Which ones?'

Talk about why predictions sometimes differ from results

Extension challenge: Show students a new object and have them apply what they learned to make an evidence-based prediction.

Differentiate

Adjust the activity without losing its core purpose.

For kindergarteners, simplify to fewer objects and use a thumbs up/down system for predictions instead of recording sheets. For 2nd-3rd graders, add a column for explaining reasoning behind predictions and introduce the concept of density. For English learners, provide visual supports and native language translations for key terms.

Look for learning

Use these signals to assess understanding.

Review prediction sheets for completion and accuracy of recorded results. Note which students can identify patterns in floating objects. Listen for use of evidence-based reasoning during discussions. Observe whether students apply learning to the extension challenge.