Seasonal Science - Mardi Gras

Celebrating Mardi Gras through science engages kids by exploring its colorful traditions. They learn about the chemistry of dyes used in vibrant costumes, how to make their own musical instruments and the physics of creating a confetti cannon! This hands-on approach fosters curiosity, cultural appreciation, and a deeper understanding of science in everyday festivities.

This pack includes 8 fun Mardi Gras themed science experiments:

1. Confetti Cannon (pressure and force)
2. Dancing Beads (static electricity)
3. Rainbow Density Column (density of liquids)
4. Celebration Masks (chromatography)
5. Mardi Gras Kaleidoscopes (light reflection and refraction)
6. Which Fabric? (tear and tensile strength in fabric)
7. Mardi Gras Music (making musical instruments)
8. Costume Designer (reusing recyclable materials)

PLUS a generic science investigation recording sheet

Each experiment comes with a Teacher Notes page that includes the learning intention behind the experiment, the success criteria, list of materials needed, procedure and teacher notes (to explain in simple terms the background information about the experiment). Student recording sheets are also included.

I have intentional designed these experiments to use easily found materials at school or cheap items that can be purchased from a supermarket (such as vegetable oil or coffee filters).

Incorporating celebrations into science lessons is important for students because it makes learning more fun and interesting. When students learn about scientific concepts through celebrations like holidays or cultural events, they can see how science is connected to their own lives and the world around them. It helps them understand that science is not just something they study in textbooks, but it's something that affects them every day. Learning about different celebrations also teaches students about diversity and different cultures, which is important for building understanding and respect for others.