Katherine Brooks and Rhana Vickers
Engage
Demonstrate a two-layered
liquid “parfait” and discuss why
the liquids would stay as 2
separate layers.
Explore
 Make a prediction about the layers, then
measure and record data for four different
liquids.
 Calculate densities of the four liquids and
relate the densities to the order of layering.
Explain
 Ask students to explain their results and
compare them to their predictions.
 Have students relate the calculated density to
the order of the layering.
 Ask students to write their own definition of
density.
Extend/Expand
 Predict the density of a new unknown liquid
and the position in the layers.
 Discuss density in relation to sinking/floating,
gravity in space and on the Moon.
 Discuss real-world examples of liquid layers.
 Brainstorm careers which involve density.
Evaluate
 Could students
successfully
determine the
layered position of
the fifth liquid, and
did they explain how
they arrived at their
answer?
Differentiate or extend
Resources
 Eichinger, John. Activities Linking Science with
Math 5-8; NSTA Press, 2009, pgs 89 – 97.
 Steve Spangler Science
http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experim
ents/density-tower-magic-with-science