Preschool Ice Explorations

We began our study by discussing what the kiddos knew about water and ice. Each child filled a small plastic cup with water and placed it on a tray, which we then put in the freezer overnight. 

Before removing them from the freezer and bringing them to our group time, I asked the kiddos what they thought had happened to the water in the cups. We discussed what the difference would be with water placed in the fridge instead of in the freezer, etc.

They immediately began touching it and checking it out. I instructed
them to flip the ice out into their hand to explore it further. Many noticed
that it began immediately melting in their hands. 

We then went outside for further investigating. I instructed them not to throw the ice at their friends, but didn't advise them beyond that, as I wanted to see what their curiosity would reveal. 

Some sat them out in the sun to see what would happen. 

Some continued holding them in their hands and watching and
feeling the melting taking place.

 

This friend was trying to determine if she put it in an existing puddle
and covered and uncovered it, would it melt faster or slower. 

Would rubbing it on the blacktop make it change faster?

What would happen if a group of them were placed in a puddle?

Would adding more water to the ice make a difference?

Throwing the ice on the ground and stomping it was another
way to change the appearance of it.

I love it when a simple idea with minimal materials is provided and it ends up leading to lots of discovery and excitement!